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Could a class prevent distracted driving accidents?

Many drivers are familiar with the dangers presented by distracted driving. In recent years, the number of serious car accidents due to driver distraction has continued to rise, even as safety experts and lawmakers have spoken out against the use of cell phones and other devices while behind the wheel. Although many jurisdictions have enacted bans on cell phone use and texting while driving, it remains to be seen whether these laws will prevent people from driving while distracted. If these laws do not work, what can people do to prevent distracted driving accidents?

A team at the University of California, San Diego believes that a class about the dangers of distracted driving could result in safer driving practices. The university plans to offer a series of classes as part of an initiative known as Just Drive – Take Action Against Distraction. Sponsors of the initiative include the California Highway Patrol and the university’s program for Training, Research and Education for Driving Safety.

The classes will be offered to local business and will feature a variety of information about distracted driving. The program will feature lectures by safety experts, briefings on distracted driving laws and presentations by individuals whose lives have been affected by distracted driving related car accidents.

The organizers of the class program believe that enacting legislation and passing bans on cell phone use are only part of the solution to the distracted driving problem. In order to bring about widespread change, it is important to also focus on changing driver attitudes and our overall driving culture. By providing people as much information as possible about the risks of driving while distracted, organizers hope they can help bring about these changes.

Only time will tell whether these classes will result in fewer distracted driving accidents, but no one expects an immediate impact. Indeed, changing attitudes and encouraging people to make lasting alterations to basic behaviors takes time. Nevertheless, it is important to begin the process sooner rather than later. If California’s pilot program is successful, other states may choose to develop similar programs.

If a car accident caused by another person’s negligence has left you injured, speak to an attorney with experience handling personal injury cases. A personal injury lawyer can explain your rights and can help you determine your next steps. In some cases, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills and time spent away from work.

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