Distracted Driving and Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian deaths are on the rise across the country, thanks in part to heavier vehicles and less attentive drivers.

Pedestrian deaths have hit a 28-year-high across the nation, with more than 6,200 people killed on roads in the United States in 2018. In comparison, 4,100 pedestrians were killed across the country in 2009. So, what is causing the increasing numbers year after year? Two things researchers are pointing to are larger SUVs on the road, which can be deadly when striking a pedestrian, and distracted driving, which is leading to more collisions with pedestrians overall.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident with a distracted driver, it is important that you contact a Tennessee auto accident attorney as soon as possible. At Burch, Morrison, & Stewart, we understand how stressful and traumatic these types of accidents can be. Let us help get you the compensation you deserve and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.

What is Distracted Driving?

As the term suggests, distracted driving can be caused by anything that diverts your attention from driving. With people so keen on multitasking, it is becoming a bigger issue. Distracted driving is not just looking at your cell phone, but it can also be talking, eating, or drinking while operating a vehicle. Even changing the station on the radio or looking at your navigation system can be considered distracted driving since it takes your attention away from safely operating your vehicle.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting is the most concerning distraction . Sending a text can require you to take your eyes off the road for five seconds. If you are driving at 55 miles per hour, that is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

Distracted Driving Laws in Tennessee

Tenn. Code Ann. §55-8-199 covers distracted driving in Tennessee and bans the use of a mobile phone or personal digital assistant to read or transmit a message while driving in the state. The Tennessee Highway Safety Office also shares tips to help you remain alert and focused while behind the wheel.

You should put your mobile phone completely away. If you need to send a text or make a call, pull over to the side of the road. Never use a mobile device while driving. While hands-free devices are safer, you should still use extreme caution.
Before getting on the road, set your GPS in advance. Program it before you even leave the driveway and, if you need to change it mid-route, pull over. You should never operate your GPS while driving the car.
Ensure that all children and pets are safely secured. If your children or a dog are becoming disruptive while on the road, you should pull over and deal with the issue.

Contact a Tennessee Pedestrian Accident Attorney

If you have been injured by a distracted driver, it is important to contact an attorney sooner rather than later. Your attorney can ensure that evidence is preserved and help by building a strong case from the start. Contact the team of skilled personal injury attorneys at Burch, Morrison, and Stewart today at (931) 954-1066 to schedule a free case evaluation.