There are always new laws and regulations that try to encourage people to be better drivers. However, no punishment will ever work as long as individuals do not choose make good choices on the road, regardless of whether they are laws or not. A lot of car crash statistics point towards distracted driving as a major cause of fatal car accidents. As a Missouri injury lawyer, I want people to stay safe out there on the road. In my practice, I have noticed a few things lead to more accidents:

1. Using your phone. It doesn’t matter how popular you are, if you have an important call, take it off the road. Distractions from cell phone use are one of the largest causes of fatal car accidents.
2. Rubbernecking. A lot of interesting things happen out there on the road. You don’t need to look at it though. Keep your eyes on the road and off billboards, accidents, and flashy new cars.
3. Food. Eating in the car is great, except for the fact that you aren’t going to be paying full attention to the road. Pull over if you’re hungry. Take your time; enjoy your meal!
4. Looking for things. Everybody finds themselves looking around their car for something they misplaced. Here’s the thing: not only will you find whatever you’re looking for faster, but you won’t risk taking your hand off the wheel and your eyes off the road!
5. Your pet riding shotgun. I know how much Fluffy likes to stick his head out the window and how excited he gets when you say “Car ride!” but pets can be seriously distracting to your driving. Plus, unsecured animals can get seriously hurt in your car. Always travel with your pet in a crate for everyone’s safety.

Even if YOU are driving safely, you never know when other drivers are distracted. If you are hurt in a car accident because of a distracted driver, you probably need need help recovering physically AND financially. A good Missouri injury lawyer may be able to get help to pay your medical bills—but not if you make one of the numerous common errors that ruin an injury claim before it even begins. If you have been hurt in a car accident and would like more information, don’t hesitate to request my free Missouri accident guide, “I Survived! The Crash Victim’s Guide to Dealing with the Aftermath,” and learn what mistakes you didn’t know you were making!