Distracted driving is not a new concept. Long before smartphones, navigation devices and vehicle entertainment systems, people were doing other things behind the wheel that put their lives and the lives of others in danger. It would be a real challenge to find someone who hasn’t eaten something or taken a drink while driving.
Perhaps you have indulged in something to eat or drink on your way to or from work, while running errands or otherwise driving somewhere. What harm would be it be to take a few fries out of the bag before getting to your destination. After all, they smell good and you are hungry.
What are people eating while they drive?
Studies have been done to determine what the most popular foods are to eat while driving. Below is the list from most popular to least popular:
- French fries
- Hamburgers
- Candy bars
- Chips
- Donuts
- Granola bars
These may all seem like good finger foods, but it is still dangerous to eat them while driving. You could drop fries, condiments could leak out of a hamburger, and donuts and chips could leave crumbs everywhere. Not to mention the fact that you need to open the containers they are in to eat them. Eating takes more of your attention of the road than you may realize.
Studies break down the data even further to determine what age groups and gender tend to eat behind the wheel most often. While that data may be useful, it does nothing to help diminish the danger this distraction causes. In the time it takes to open a candy bar, the traffic pattern around your vehicle could change drastically. Without your full attention on the road, the chances of an accident increase.
Getting the legal support you need
If the driver next to you is paying more attention to his or her food than the road, you could find yourself suffering serious injuries as a result. If this happens, you may exercise your right to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and more. However, you should have the freedom to focus on your recovery and not on the claims process.
Consulting with an attorney with knowledge of Florida’s personal injury laws and experience in representing people in your situation could help increase your odds of receiving the maximum amount of restitution you deserve in light of the circumstances.
