Car Accidents Caused by Smoking While Driving
Smoking behind the wheel is more dangerous than many drivers realize. In Clearwater and throughout Florida, smoking while driving can lead to serious car accidents because it takes a driver’s attention off the road. Distracted driving is defined as any activity that diverts a driver’s eyes, hands, or mental focus away from safely operating a vehicle—and smoking clearly falls into that category.
Even brief distractions can have devastating consequences. When a driver chooses to smoke, they are increasing the risk of a collision for themselves, their passengers, and everyone else on the road.
Why Smoking While Driving Is a Serious Distraction
The act of smoking involves multiple steps that divide a driver’s attention. A driver must locate a cigarette, remove it from the pack, find a lighter, and attempt to light it—all while steering a moving vehicle. If the cigarette fails to light, the driver often continues trying, further increasing the time spent distracted.
Once lit, the distraction does not end. Drivers often keep one hand off the wheel while smoking and must manage falling ash or dispose of the cigarette safely. Each of these actions takes attention away from traffic conditions, road hazards, and other vehicles.
Types of Distractions Caused by Smoking While Driving
Smoking creates all three major types of driving distractions:
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Visual distractions: Looking away from the road to find cigarettes or a lighter
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Cognitive distractions: Focusing mentally on lighting and managing the cigarette instead of driving
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Manual distractions: Removing one or both hands from the steering wheel
The combination of these distractions makes smoking while driving particularly dangerous.
The Risk of Accidents Linked to Smoking While Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of fatal crashes in the United States. Studies show that smoking while driving can be just as distracting—if not more so—than using a cell phone. Research has found that smokers may take their attention off the road for extended periods, covering the length of a football field or more without fully watching traffic.
Commercial driving authorities also warn against smoking while operating vehicles. Safety studies involving professional drivers have linked smoking to thousands of distraction-related crashes over a multi-year period.
How Smoking While Driving Can Affect a Car Accident Claim
In Florida, smoking while driving may negatively impact a car accident claim. Even if another driver caused the crash—such as by speeding, driving under the influence, or rear-ending your vehicle—insurance companies may argue that smoking contributed to the accident.
Because smoking is considered distracted driving, insurers may claim you were partially at fault. Florida follows a comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you are found even partially responsible for the crash. Any activity perceived as negligent may be used to minimize or challenge your claim.
This is why it is important to understand how insurance companies evaluate distraction-related accidents and to seek legal guidance when injuries are involved.
Smoking While Driving and Other Common Distractions
Smoking is just one of many distractions that put drivers at risk. Other common forms of distracted driving include:
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Eating or drinking
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Adjusting music or vehicle controls
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Using GPS devices
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Applying makeup
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Reaching for objects
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Looking at roadside incidents
These distractions cause thousands of injuries and fatalities every year. Drivers injured due to another person’s distraction may be entitled to compensation, but insurance companies often make these claims difficult to navigate without legal representation.
Speak With an Experienced Florida Car Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, it is important to protect your rights. A knowledgeable car accident attorney can investigate the crash, handle communication with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
At Applebaum Accident Group, we understand how distracted driving accidents affect victims and their families. Our team is committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and helping injured clients move forward.
Contact Applebaum Accident Group today for a consultation(855-Call-Paul)
and learn how we can help you after a distracted driving accident.
