Some people get so used to driving each day that they don’t find it that challenging. However, whether we realize it or not, driving is a highly complex activity that demands a lot of attention.
Fast reaction times can save lives. The faster a person’s reaction times, the less likely they are to get into a crash. And, even if they are involved in a crash, a fast reaction time means that they will be able to slow down. Many factors can slow a driver’s reaction time, but these are two of the most common:
1. Drinking and driving
Drunk driving is illegal in New Jersey for several reasons, but one of them is that alcohol can significantly slow down reaction times. If a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is at just .08%, their reaction time will slow by around 120 milliseconds. This doesn’t sound like much, but at 70 mph, it’s equivalent to traveling an extra 12 feet.
2. Distracted driving
Every year, over 3,000 people are killed in distracted driving accidents. Being distracted physically or mentally means that a driver is not paying full attention to the road, and thus has slower reaction times.
Cell phones are among the most common forms of distraction. Looking at a cellphone message takes around three to five seconds on average. At a speed of 65 mph, this means traveling a distance of around 100 yards blindly.
You can only limit distractions and alcohol consumption for yourself and not other people. If you have been injured in a crash, it’s important to seek as much legal information as possible.
