A bike ride on a hot summer day is refreshing, with the wind whipping in your hair and the splash of water from your water bottle running down your face, you’ll feel invigorated. But what if that bike ride was for 10,000 miles? What if that bike ride was to raise awareness to prevent teens from texting while driving? Would you hop on your bike and say, challenge ACCEPTED?
One cyclist from Ridgefield, Connecticut did just that. After hearing the story of Merrit Levitan who was killed while cycling during the day in 2013 by a driver who was texting while behind the wheel, Ben Grannis set out to do something about educating teens on the dangers of distracted driving. He is currently in the middle of riding 10,000 miles to raise money for the charity started by Merrit’s parents called Text Less Live More.
Grannis’ ride is a good reminder to all of us that distracted driving can lead to a Connecticut auto accident which may lead to an injury or even death. You can help Grannis reach his goal of raising $50,000 for the cause by donating to his ride here. Along with donating money to his cause, you can also spread the word about the importance of removing distractions when you’re driving. Some of the tips you can share include;
-
Before you put your car into drive, stowe your cell phone in the glovebox. You can retrieve your cell phone when you come to a complete stop, but while you’re driving keep it stowed so you are not tempted to pick it up while you’re behind the wheel.
-
Avoid any distractions from passengers. You may not think that having someone in your passenger seat poses a serious distracted driving threat, but statistics show that having a conversation with a passenger can be just as distracting as looking at your phone while you’re driving.
-
Do not eat while you’re driving. It can be tempting to stop and pick up a quick lunch at your favorite drive thru restaurant, but it can also be dangerous. Eating while driving can be very distracting and can cause you to take your attention away from the road for just a split second which may lead to an accident and an injury.
While Grannis’ ride is focused on the distraction a cell phone presents when you’re behind the wheel, all types of distracted driving can lead to a Connecticut auto accident. While cell phones are some of the most recent distractions that are facing drivers there have long been distractions that have gotten in the way of drivers being safe behind the wheel so it is important to spread the word that all distractions should be eliminated and your focus should always be only on the road in front of you.
Getting behind the wheel has risks and can lead to an accident and injury and if it does, you may need an experienced attorney to work with you to protect your long-term interests. In the event that you need to speak with someone, we are here. Contact our office and one of our experienced attorneys will take the time to look over the details of your case and work with you to protect your long-term interests.
