Some drivers like to recline way back when they drive. Sometimes, it’s a matter of comfort or driving style, and the younger the driver, the more likely they are to push the limits on the seat’s recline function. The fact is, however, that this is not only a phenomenally bad idea for the driver himself or herself, but it is also a bad decision in terms of safe driving and the safety of everyone else on the roadway, as it can cause serious car accidents and injuries.
If you are injured by another driver’s negligence – in the form of a laid-back seat or anything else – look no further than an experienced car accident attorney in Atlanta for the legal guidance you need.
Peeking over the Steering Wheel
When motorists lean way back in their seats, they have to peek over the steering wheel – regardless of how tall they are and how small the car might be. The angle forces one’s head back and requires craning to look forward. Drivers are tasked with the primary responsibility of driving safely, which requires us to pay careful attention to the road ahead and to the traffic all around, and there is simply no way to effectively and efficiently manage this when the head of the motorist in question is leaning back.
Reclining Discourages Looking Back
We are most at risk of causing dangerous traffic accidents when we change lanes or leave the lane we’re driving in for any reason, such as taking an exit. When you leave your lane, you enter the other lane’s flow of traffic, and if you don’t take all the necessary precautions before doing so, it can lead to serious accidents. These necessary precautions include all the following:
- Checking your rearview mirror
- Checking your side mirror
- Looking back to check your blind spots
Each of these actions is far more difficult to accomplish when the driver is pitched at a backward angle. In fact, such drivers need to pull themselves forward and readjust before they are physically capable of taking these precautions, and they are much less likely to bother.
Paying Attention in the Here and Now
Motorists are required to respond in real-time to whatever they encounter on the road, and we never know what that might be. Anything that increases our reaction time, such as having to hoist ourselves forward to get a better view of what we’re up against, elevates the risk that we’ll fail to respond safely. Sitting in an overly reclined position is a prime example of a variable that can significantly increase a driver’s reaction time, which makes it a form of driver negligence.
Turn to an Experienced Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney for the Help You Need
If you’ve been injured by a motorist who likes to lean back and take it easy behind the wheel, the formidable Atlanta car accident attorneys at Spaulding Injury Law understand the gravity of your situation and are here to help. To learn more, please don’t hesitate to contact or call us at 770-744-0890 today.
