Distracted driving can increase your risk of getting into an accident while driving to work, school or other destinations within Kentucky. Technically, anything that takes your focus away from the road is a distraction, which means that you should refrain from eating while your car is in motion.
Why eating while driving can be hazardous
At a minimum, you’ll need to take your eyes away from the road to ensure that your food gets into your mouth without causing a mess. Furthermore, you’ll likely need to take your hands off of the steering wheel to unwrap a sandwich, candy bar or whatever else you’re snacking on. This can impede your ability to spot a hazard or take evasive action to avoid a motor vehicle accident. It’s also important to note that the act of dropping your food may result in a distraction that leads to a collision.
Park your car if you have to eat in your vehicle
If you simply cannot wait to have a snack before you get to your destination, make sure to do so while your car is parked. This may mean eating in a grocery store parking lot, at a rest stop or on the side of the road outside of your employer’s building. Eating after parking your car is generally a good idea even if your vehicle has safety features designed to prevent a collision from occurring.
If you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. An attorney may be able to help you obtain a favorable financial award through a negotiated settlement or after a formal trial. Car accident victims typically have one year from the date of their accidents to file personal injury lawsuits, but you’ll want to ask an attorney about the time limit that applies in your case.
