Distracted driving happens when a motorist is sidetracked from operating their vehicle in a focused, safe manner.
Distractions reduce a motorist’s ability to respond to road conditions, potentially leading to devastating consequences.
Types of distractions on the road
Distracted driving can be classified into three main categories, and the first one is visual distractions. This occurs when the driver takes their eyes off the road altogether. Even a few seconds of not looking at the road can result in a serious accident.
The next classification is manual distractions, which occur when a driver takes one or both hands off the steering wheel. Common manual distractions include:
- Eating
- Drinking
- Adjusting the radio
- Reaching for objects in the car
When drivers’ hands are not on the wheel, they are less prepared to make quick maneuvers or respond to sudden changes, such as another vehicle braking or an obstacle on the road.
Last but not least, cognitive distractions happen when a driver does not practice mindfulness when engaging in the task of driving. Even if the driver’s hands are on the wheel and their eyes are on the road, cognitive distractions can show up as:
- Thinking about personal issues
- Daydreaming
- Engaging in a conversation
If drivers are preoccupied with things other than driving, they are less likely to perceive and react to potential hazards in time.
Common causes of distracted driving
Many drivers might not be aware that texting is one of the most dangerous distractions while they’re behind the wheel. This is because it requires the driver to engage:
- Visually
- Manually
- Cognitively
Additionally, though it may seem harmless, eating and drinking while driving forces drivers to take their hands off the wheel and focus on balancing food items. This can make it harder to respond quickly to sudden changes in the flow of traffic.
Furthermore, engaging in deep conversations can be a cognitive distraction. Not to mention that turning to look at a passenger during a conversation can add a visual distraction, further reducing the driver’s concentration on the road.
Motorists who are involved in a car accident because another driver was distracted behind the wheel may wonder if they can pursue any legal recourse. With compassionate legal support, affected motorists can better understand their odds of receiving compensation for their injuries.