When you think about drivers in Georgia who are distracted, you probably automatically think about cell phones and other electronic devies as being the cause. However, food and drink are also huge sources of distraction behind the wheel. At Sams, Larkin & Huff, LLP, we know how serious crashes caused by distracted drivers can be.
Anything that takes your eyes off of the road for even a second can be considered a distraction. According to Decide to Drive, your chances of being in an accident go up 80 percent if you are eating while driving. While no food is a safe bet, certain types of foods are especially dangerous to consume while driving. Things that make your hands dirty or sticky, like doughnuts, fried chicken or candy, pose a major risk. Hot items like coffee and soup are also a bad idea.
Food is a distraction in a few different ways. Eating not only takes your mind off of driving but it also requires you to use your hands and eyes, as well. If a situation arises where you need to act or steer quickly, you may not be able to do so if you are snacking on a sandwich or drinking a hot beverage.
When your life is busy and your schedule is hectic, eating on the go can sometimes be necessary. However, pulling over or waiting until you get home is the safe thing to do. People whose lives have been impacted by a crash with a distracted driver may want to contact an experienced attorney.