Driving through Alaska’s scenic landscapes is a unique experience, but distracted driving poses serious risks. You need to stay aware of the most common distractions on the road to prevent accidents and personal injury. 

From tech gadgets to natural beauty that steals your attention, understanding these hazards can make a significant difference. Let’s dive into what leads drivers astray in Alaska’s majestic surroundings.

Use of Cell phones

Cell phones really are a frequent distraction when you are behind the wheel, especially in places like Alaska, where the weather is unpredictable. Even a glance at your phone can significantly divert your attention, you have to have your full attention on the road at all times. 

Tempting as it might be to check out notifications or maps, always remember that things can go south fast if you are not careful. Do yourself a favor and either tuck your phone somewhere hard to reach while driving or, better yet, switch on those hands-free features before hitting the roads in Alaska.

Staring at Things Outside the Vehicle

It is super easy to get distracted by what is happening outside your car windows. Whether it is eye-catching billboards, the aftermath of side-road fender benders, or just stunning views, these distractions pull your attention away from where it needs to be: on the road ahead.

Sticking to the common advice of always keeping your eyes on the road can save a lot of trouble. Keeping glances away from the road for under two seconds is ideal because any longer might slow down how quickly you can react if you need to hit the brakes suddenly or dodge out of the way fast.

Substance Abuse and Lack of Sleep

Driving after a few drinks or while you are super tired is the catalyst behind many accidents, even if it is not always obvious. Alcohol and drugs can affect your cognitive ability, making it hard to focus and seriously dipping your driving skills.

Tiredness is just as bad. Not getting enough sleep makes it tough to concentrate, pretty much like being drunk. So, if you are feeling sleepy or have been drinking, it’s in your best interest to not drive until you are clear-headed and alert.

Talking to Other Passengers and Interacting with Pets

Chit-chatting or taking care of pets in the car can seriously distract you from driving. Getting caught up in a conversation might mean missing important signs or changes on the road. Even just quickly dealing with something your pet needs can become a big mistake.

To reduce these risks, try to minimize interactions with passengers. Also, ensure your pets are safely secured in carriers or safety harnesses.

Dealing with a Personal Injury Caused by Distracted Driving

“When distracted driving leads to an accident in Alaska, it is considered a criminal offense because of the magnitude of accidents that happen due to a lack of attention. If you end up hurt because another driver was not paying attention, you might have the right to seek compensation,” says lawyer Daniel Libbeyof Libbey Law Offices, LLC. 

It is a smart move to talk to a personal injury attorney based in Alaska. They can really dig into your case and put together a strong argument for you. These lawyers know the ins and outs of local laws and are good at dealing with insurance companies to get you the settlement you deserve.

Conclusion

Driving distracted is seriously risky for everyone on the road. It is crucial to steer clear of typical distractions like messing with your phone, using substances, or getting caught up in conversations while driving. Importantly, if a distracted driver crashes into you, consider a personal injury lawsuit to ensure they are held responsible for their actions.

Leading Causes of Distracted Driving

Driving through Alaska’s scenic landscapes is a unique experience, but distracted driving poses serious risks. You need to stay aware of the most common distractions on the road to prevent accidents and personal injury. 

From tech gadgets to natural beauty that steals your attention, understanding these hazards can make a significant difference. Let’s dive into what leads drivers astray in Alaska’s majestic surroundings.

Use of Cell phones

Cell phones really are a frequent distraction when you are behind the wheel, especially in places like Alaska, where the weather is unpredictable. Even a glance at your phone can significantly divert your attention, you have to have your full attention on the road at all times. 

Tempting as it might be to check out notifications or maps, always remember that things can go south fast if you are not careful. Do yourself a favor and either tuck your phone somewhere hard to reach while driving or, better yet, switch on those hands-free features before hitting the roads in Alaska.

Staring at Things Outside the Vehicle

It is super easy to get distracted by what is happening outside your car windows. Whether it is eye-catching billboards, the aftermath of side-road fender benders, or just stunning views, these distractions pull your attention away from where it needs to be: on the road ahead.

Sticking to the common advice of always keeping your eyes on the road can save a lot of trouble. Keeping glances away from the road for under two seconds is ideal because any longer might slow down how quickly you can react if you need to hit the brakes suddenly or dodge out of the way fast.

Substance Abuse and Lack of Sleep

Driving after a few drinks or while you are super tired is the catalyst behind many accidents, even if it is not always obvious. Alcohol and drugs can affect your cognitive ability, making it hard to focus and seriously dipping your driving skills.

Tiredness is just as bad. Not getting enough sleep makes it tough to concentrate, pretty much like being drunk. So, if you are feeling sleepy or have been drinking, it’s in your best interest to not drive until you are clear-headed and alert.

Talking to Other Passengers and Interacting with Pets

Chit-chatting or taking care of pets in the car can seriously distract you from driving. Getting caught up in a conversation might mean missing important signs or changes on the road. Even just quickly dealing with something your pet needs can become a big mistake.

To reduce these risks, try to minimize interactions with passengers. Also, ensure your pets are safely secured in carriers or safety harnesses.

Dealing with a Personal Injury Caused by Distracted Driving

“When distracted driving leads to an accident in Alaska, it is considered a criminal offense because of the magnitude of accidents that happen due to a lack of attention. If you end up hurt because another driver was not paying attention, you might have the right to seek compensation,” says lawyer Daniel Libbeyof Libbey Law Offices, LLC. 

It is a smart move to talk to a personal injury attorney based in Alaska. They can really dig into your case and put together a strong argument for you. These lawyers know the ins and outs of local laws and are good at dealing with insurance companies to get you the settlement you deserve.

Conclusion

Driving distracted is seriously risky for everyone on the road. It is crucial to steer clear of typical distractions like messing with your phone, using substances, or getting caught up in conversations while driving. Importantly, if a distracted driver crashes into you, consider a personal injury lawsuit to ensure they are held responsible for their actions.

Source: Libby Law, Alaska