Web surfing, distracted driving accidents on the rise

Surfing the Internet used to be an activity we did in the privacy of our own homes, like watching T.V. Logging into the Internet required logging in and remaining stationary. With the development of new portable technology, including smartphones and iPads, more Americans have access to the Internet while walking, at a restaurant, or in their vehicles.

While it is convenient, portable web-surfing devices can be dangerous. According to recent statistics, an increasing number of motor vehicle accidents are being caused by Internet surfing in New Haven, Connecticut and nationwide.

Internet surfing from a portable device has been called “webbing.” The number of portable internet users has increased from 29 percent to 48 percent of drivers in 2012. Webbing behind the while can mean distracted driving, including swerving over the median, failure to identify pedestrians, and rear-end collisions. For victims and their families, there needs to be more awareness when it comes to the dangers of Internet use behind the wheel.

According to the research, 48 percent of drivers between the ages of 18 to 29 checked email while driving. The number of drivers checking social media networks, including Facebook and Instagram increased from 21 percent to 36 percent. Young drivers are not the only drivers surfing the web while driving. Motorists at every age showed an increase in the use of Internet while behind the wheel. Webbing may even replace texting as the leading cause of distracted driving accidents.

After an accident, it is important to identify all responsible parties and determine the cause of the collision. An experienced attorney and support team can help victims of distracted driving accidents recover significant compensation for injuries and losses.

Source: MSN Autos, “Distracted driving from Web surfing on the rise,” Douglas Newcomb, Nov. 26, 2012