Distracted driving, any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road, is a cause of many car accidents on the road. Many drivers think they can multitask without it affecting their ability to remain safe, but this isn’t the case.
Even if you’re driving safely, another driver might not be doing the same. One distracted driver can be at fault for catastrophic injuries to innocent people. There are three categories of distractions that drivers face.
Visual distraction
Visual distraction occurs when a driver takes their eyes off the road. Drivers must ensure they’re watching what’s going on around their vehicle. Some things to avoid while driving include:
- Looking at a phone or GPS device
- Adjusting the radio or air conditioning
- Reading a map or directions
- Rubbernecking
- Getting lost in the beauty of nature or a landscape view
It’s best for drivers to pull over if they need to do something that will take their eyes off the road. These types of distractions account for many accidents.
Manual distraction
Manual distraction occurs when a driver takes their hands off the steering wheel. New drivers are taught that they should keep both hands on the wheel, but they tend to shift to one-hand driving as they become more experienced. Drivers shouldn’t do any of these:
- Eating or drinking
- Grooming, including applying makeup or shaving
- Reaching for an object in the car
- Trying to help a passenger in the back seat with something that requires turning around or reaching back
Because you never know what’s coming on the roadway, you should ensure you have both hands on the steering wheel in case you need to react quickly to something. This enables drivers to keep control of the vehicle as best as they can.
Cognitive distraction
Cognitive distraction occurs when a driver’s mind is not focused on driving. It takes considerable thought to stay in control of your vehicle when you’re driving. It’s best to avoid:
- Daydreaming or being lost in thought
- Engaging in animated or emotional conversations with passengers or someone on the phone
- Listening to a podcast or audiobook
It’s important for drivers to avoid all forms of distracted driving to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road. Victims of these crashes can suffer from physical, emotional and financial harm. If you have been harmed by someone who was driving while distracted, you may opt to pursue a claim for compensation. It won’t help the emotional or physical harm but it may provide you with the financial means to get the care you need. At Solomon Law Firm WE DON’T GET PAID UNLESS YOU GET PAID. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.