Kids in the Car: The Parenting Dilemma of Distraction

It's a scene that plays out in cars across America every day: parents driving while trying to manage disruptive kids in the backseat. Crying, fighting, spills and messes are common distractions that take a driver's focus off the road. Unfortunately, the results can be tragic. This article will examine the dangers of driving with unruly children and provide tips for parents to minimize the risks.

The Dangers of Driving Distracted by Kids

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 660,000 US drivers use cell phones or other devices while driving at any one time. But distractions from unruly kids in the backseat can be just as hazardous. Driving with young children is incredibly difficult, as they could be undoing their car seats, arguing, spilling their snacks, making requests, etc. These distractions are even more dangerous in dense urban areas like New York City, where heavy traffic requires maximum attention.

Sobering Statistics on Child Auto Accidents

Some sobering statistics from New York State highlight the dangers:

- So far, in 2023, 2410 car accidents have been caused by driver inattention/distraction according to the NYPD.

- In 2019, driver distraction accounted for 32% of all reported accidents in New York City.

- The three top causes of fatal accidents involving children: driver distraction, speeding, and impairment.

Common Causes of Distracted Driving

There are three main types of distractions that commonly lead to distracted driving. Manual distractions take the driver's hands off the wheel, such as eating or adjusting controls. Visual distractions take the driver's eyes off the road, like looking at a phone. Cognitive distractions take the driver's mind off driving, including daydreaming or dealing with children in the backseat. Texting, social media, phone calls, GPS navigation, eating, personal grooming, and rowdy passengers are some of the top causes of distracted driving accidents.

The Law Surrounding Distracted Driving in NYC

New York has banned all handheld cell phone use by drivers since 2001. Hands-free devices are allowed, but even hands-free calling can be considered a distraction. Texting while driving has been explicitly illegal in New York since 2009. First-time offenses for texting while driving incur a $50-$150 fine and points on your license. Subsequent violations within 18 months can lead to fines of $50-$200 and license suspension. Having unrestrained children in the backseat can also be a dangerous distraction for drivers. New York's vision is to end distracted driving through a combination of laws, enforcement, public education, and improving road infrastructure.

Why You Should Seek Legal Advice if You Have Been Hit by a Distracted Driver

If you've been injured by a distracted driver, it's important to consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help investigate the driver's behavior and build a strong case proving negligence. They know how to secure key evidence like cell phone records that may show illegal activity leading up to the crash. An experienced car accident lawyer can determine all liable parties, deal with insurance negotiations on your behalf, and make sure you receive full and fair compensation for both economic and non-economic damages stemming from the accident.

Don't leave your recovery to chance - seek experienced legal help.