Distracted driving: This is how your smartphone endangers your life!

Distracted driving: This is how your smartphone endangers your life!

The road as a living space requires constant attention from drivers, because even a moment of distraction can have fatal consequences. In the Hollabrunn district, the police have determined that cell phone use, inattention and accidents involving wildlife can be the biggest dangers in road traffic. When drivers divert their attention from what is happening on the road, they run the risk of not only endangering themselves, but also other people.

Activities on a smartphone while driving are one of the most common distractions. Whether you're quickly typing a message, having a quick conversation or checking the latest news, looking at your phone can only be for a fraction of a second, but that's enough to cause a serious accident. At a speed of 50 km/h, this means that a driver can drive almost 50 meters with their eyes closed in just three seconds.

Deadly time wasters behind the wheel

“Reading, writing or even just a quick look at your cell phone – these are all distractions that can have fatal consequences,” explains Wolfgang Strobl, the deputy district police commander. Even making phone calls via a hands-free system can cost concentration, especially if you are no longer focused on the road but only on the conversation. Another problem is fatigue and strong emotional states, which can cause the driver's attention to wane. In such cases, it is advisable to leave the car parked and not endanger yourself or others.

With autumn comes the season of wildlife crossings and drivers have to be particularly careful when driving at dusk. “Drive with half an eye, especially when the traffic sign ‘Caution Wild Crossing’ is displayed,” advises district hunter Wolfgang Strobl. Particularly in rural areas where wild animals often cross roads, increased vigilance and slow driving are essential.

In the event of an accident involving wildlife

If an accident occurs with a wild animal, you need to act quickly. According to Strobl, the person responsible for hunting should be informed. “If the animal is still alive, rapid action is essential for animal welfare reasons,” he emphasizes. Drivers who do not know the person authorized to hunt can contact the police on number 133.

Another important step after an accident involving wildlife is to report it to the police immediately, provided you have insurance. Without this, the person authorized to hunt should be informed directly. It is important to know that failure to report this can be considered a hit-and-run according to Section 4 of the Road Traffic Act.

Road safety is largely based on attention and responsibility. Drivers are advised to avoid distractions and keep an eye on road conditions to avoid dangerous situations. The dangers that careless behavior can bring are real and require everyone's constant vigilance and care.