While the world is moving faster, many have enjoyed eating a snack or maybe an entire meal behind the wheel. Over the years, there have been many distractions behind the wheel, causing accidents. We all know about the popular drive-through restaurants and coffee shops which have increased the commonality of eating behind the wheel. For example, the employees or workers grab a quick bite in the afternoon before getting into the traffic while heading home. If you get involved in a car accident, contact a car accident law firm in conyers.
Is it illegal to eat while driving?
No specific law makes it illegal to eat or drink non-alcoholic beverages while driving. But you are not supposed to eat and drive simultaneously as you cannot handle the two jobs together in a safe way. There are specific reasons why you should not eat while driving that may lead to negligence and unlawful violations.
- Negligence
Eating behind the wheel may lead to negligence and cause severe injury or even death. Driving while distracted is a form of negligent action. The common examples of distracted driving are mentioned below.
- Overspeeding
- Distracted driving in a school zone
- Cannot spot the red light
- Distracted driving while having kids in the backseat
- Changing and going in/out of the lanes
- Distractions
Sometimes, eating a meal while behind the wheel often require two hands. For example, opening a box of sandwiches or a tightly sealed container requires two hands. In this way, drivers take their hands off the wheels and may use their knees to control the steering wheel temporarily. Often, these kinds of distractions may lead to life-taking accidents.
- Foods you should avoid while driving.
Below are some foods you should avoid while driving because it requires full attention.
- Coffee: It is the most common drink that gets spilled. Spilling a hot coffee may burn you and require all of your attention to clean it up.
- Tacos: Tacos usually require two hands to eat because the thin shell of it breaks and falls on the driver’s lap or the car’s floor, which makes it dangerous when driving.
- Donuts: The sugar substance on donuts often sticks to your hand and requires cleaning.
How risky is it to eat while driving?
If you get distracted while driving and lose control of your vehicle, the police may prosecute you for “distracted or careless driving.” Distracted driving is an offense that currently carries a fine of $50 and three penalty points.