Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
The COVID-19 pandemic is changing many areas of our lives. Many of us are working from home, checking in on elderly loved ones, and concerned about the future. We’re consuming more news and may be feeling some anxiety. In addition to affecting our everyday lives, the current situation and the stress it can produce can impact our ability to drive safely in a few ways:
- Changing traffic patterns: As more people work from home or self-isolate, there may be fewer people on the roads. At the same time, worried customers may flock to stores, meaning parking lots and streets around retail areas may be more crowded and difficult to navigate.
- Distraction: One of the big problems with anxiety, worry, and fear about the current situation is that it can be distracting. Even if you put your phone away, thoughts about what the future may hold can impact driving. This type of emotional distraction can be the most insidious, because avoiding it is not as simple as putting away a device.
- Changing sleep patterns: As we worry and deal with the new reality around us, many of us report poor sleep or changed sleep patterns. In turn, this can lead to fatigued driving, which is a major cause of car collisions in Hollywood and across South Florida.
- Anger: With the uncertainty some of us are feeling, it is not unusual for individuals to feel frustration and even anger. When driving, this can lead to road rage incidents and distracted driving.
- Incoming news: Incoming news can prove a distraction on the road, especially if you are listening to updates in the car and focusing more on what is happening in the world than on driving.
What You Can Do
Being aware of the dangers present in today’s world is the first step to being aware of the dangers, not just in terms of your health but also driving. Here’s how you can stay safer on the roads:
- Stay calm: Try to focus on what you can control and try to manage your emotions as much as possible.
- Get help if you need it: Use phone calls, video calls, texting, and social media messaging to stay in touch with loved ones and to keep your support network strong. If you find your anxiety levels spike or if you are struggling with the current situation, contact your physician’s office or try online counseling.
- Put away distractions: Even with fewer drivers on the roads, you need to drive defensively and put away any devices and distractions so you can focus on the road. Keep in mind that other drivers may be distracted, upset, and making mistakes, so you need to be prepared for the unexpected.
- Limit driving if you need to: If you are struggling or if you have been exposed and are feeling unwell, limit driving. Ask a friend to drive to pick up supplies or order online.
Have you been injured in a car collision in Homestead, Hollywood, Miami, or any community in South Florida, you may be wondering how the current situation could impact your ability to get compensation for your losses. Contact Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free accident consultation with a Homestead car crash attorney to discuss your situation and your potential claim.