At this point, you’re probably well aware that wearing a mask around other people in public spaces drastically reduces the transmission of the novel coronavirus.
But what about when you’re alone? Is wearing a mask still appropriate?
Not always. Here’s why:
You Must Be Exposed to the Virus to Catch It
In order to become infected with COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website states that you must inhale a certain amount of contaminated droplets from a sick person or touch a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes.
While it’s possible for the virus to spread by touching surfaces, this is not believed to be the primary mode of transmission.
In summary, if you are alone in a controlled environment, such as your personal vehicle, wearing a mask is not necessary.
Your Mask Can Easily Distract You
Since there is little concern regarding catching COVID-19 while driving alone in your car or with other people you shelter with, not wearing a mask is a wise choice.
You see, when you’re driving alone, your mask can actually do more harm than good. Face masks don’t typically have a snug fit, and even if they do, they can easily move around your face when you turn your head or move your body. When your mask moves around your face, it distracts you from the road.
Not only are you mentally distracted by the mask’s movement, when you adjust it, this also causes a physical distraction.
Furthermore, your mask can easily disrupt your vision if you wear prescription glasses or sunglasses while driving. Most masks, even those with an adjustable nose bridge, have small openings toward the top of your nose that allow your breath to escape. When this happens, the only place for it to go is up through your glasses. This causes the lenses to fog up, which can seriously muddle your vision.
What to Remember
It’s crucial we all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, which means wearing a mask in public places. However, wearing a mask while driving alone in your car or with others you shelter with is unnecessary and can cause needless distractions. You aren’t any more protected by doing so, but you are at a higher risk of causing a collision.
If you wouldn’t wear a mask while you’re home alone, you don’t need to wear one while you’re alone in the car.
Call our experienced Nashville team at Witherington Injury Law today at (615) 697-6503 for a free consultation.