You, like millions of other drivers, may stop regularly at the nearest fast food restaurant. After all, why wouldn’t you stop for a quick and convenient meal without ever having to leave the comfort of your car? While you may park and enjoy your meal before hitting the road again, most people just eat while they drive.
While Connecticut doesn’t have any law preventing people from enjoying a double cheeseburger, small fry and an extra-large soda while they drive, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe. Eating on the road is one of the many ways drivers can risk endangering themselves and others. Here’s what you should know:
Eating while driving is distracted driving
Distracted driving can occur when a driver looks away from the road – even for a second – causing them to miss important details that would otherwise prevent a car accident. Distracted drivers not only risk injuring themselves but they can put passengers, other drivers and bystanders in danger.
Eating while driving may be commonly done (and socially acceptable), but it’s still a distraction:
- A driver needs to unwrap their meal, causing them to take their hands off the wheel and look away from the road.
- A driver could spill their drink or get ketchup on their clothes and, out of frustration and surprise, suddenly lose focus while driving.
- A driver could get grease or condiments on their hands, causing their hands to slip while attempting to turn the wheel.
If you were recently in an auto accident and you suspect a driver became distracted because they were eating, then you may need to reach out for legal guidance in order to get the compensation you are due.
