Distracted driving continues to be a serious problem in Washington state. The latest auto accident involving a distracted driver in the Evergreen state happened on Friday afternoon in Richland, authorities reported.
According to local news outlets, a driver was traveling on Highway 240 when he became distracted. As he took the ramp to westbound Interstate 182, he took his eyes off the road allowing his vehicle to go off the side of the road. Because the vehicle rolled as a result of the accident, the driver, as well as his three passengers, a 31-year-old woman, a 1-year-old, and a 23-month-old, sustained injuries. Emergency personnel transported all occupants to the hospital.
Authorities said the driver received a citation for second-degree negligent driving.
While reports did not mention what kind of distraction took the attention of the driver away from the road, we are aware that there are several types of activities that can be considered distracting to someone operating a motor vehicle.
In Washington state, we have laws against distracted driving that prohibit drivers from using their phones and other electronic devices, and from taking part in other activities while driving such as applying make-up, eating, and drinking.
WTSC: 70% Of Washington Drivers Use Their Phones While Driving
The Washington Traffic Safety Commission has observed that 70% of Washingtonian drivers use their phones while behind the wheel. Considering that 23% of serious car accidents in Washington are caused by distracted driving, it’s never been more important to make drivers aware that their behavior isn’t only unlawful but also dangerous.
Hopefully, drivers who often use their phones while behind the wheel will learn from this Richland distracted driving accident and rethink their actions.
If you’re a driver, do not expose yourself or others to risks by never becoming distracted while behind the wheel.
For more on the Richland accident, follow this link.
