Sometimes, the moments immediately after a car crash seem like something out of a comedy. A driver steps out of a car shouting about how the crash ruined their lunch and their shirt. They have the remnants of a cheeseburger smeared all over the front of them, and for some reason, that takes priority over the vehicle damage, potential for injury and disruption the collision caused.
What may seem humorous at first can provide answers about why the crash actually occurred. Many people think that so long as their behavior does not technically violate state statutes, then their actions are legal and appropriate. However, many decisions are unsafe and even negligent when driving a vehicle. For example, while eating at the wheel isn’t technically an illegal form of distracted driving, it is still an incredibly dangerous decision.
Why is eating a distraction?
Distracted driving occurs when a motorist has to focus their eyes somewhere other than the road, take their hands off of the wheel or stop thinking about their safety in traffic. Eating causes all three of those issues. People tend to mentally focus more on their meal or beverage than driving.
Drivers taking that first bite of a fresh hot cheeseburger might even close their eyes to appreciate the flavor. They also have at least one hand off of the wheel. Some people try to drive with their knees while they eat or drink. They may look down to grab the last fries out of the bag.
Although distracted driving statutes address issues related to mobile technology, that does not mean that other forms of distraction are safe or appropriate. Although police officers may not be able to issue a citation for texting while driving, they may still blame the driver who crashed mid-meal for the wreck.
The decision to engage in other activities beyond driving while in control of a motor vehicle is often negligent. People know that they should keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road, but their hunger or boredom convinces them that doing otherwise isn’t too unsafe. People involved in crashes caused by those engaged in other activities while driving may be able to hold that driver accountable by pursuing compensation.
Both insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits are often an option when distracted drivers cause motor vehicle collisions. Eating at the wheel is a very common form of distraction that people might fail to correct until after they injure themselves or others.