Distracted Driving: What Is It And How Do I Avoid It?
Distracted driving is a serious problem that can lead to serious, even fatal, consequences. When drivers are distracted, they significantly increase the risk of getting into an automobile accident, putting themselves, their passengers, and other motorists in danger.
The three main categories of distracted driving are visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. Motorists can avoid potential automobile wrecks by being self-aware and actively engaging in safe, focused driving. Contact our well-versed auto collision attorneys for support when you have been hurt in a crash.
Visual Distractions
Visual distractions include anything requiring the driver to take their eyes off the road. Looking away, even for a second, puts you at risk of not seeing an accident-causing event and delays your reaction to such a situation.
For instance, looking down to read a short text message may only take a few seconds. However, within that second, a deer runs into the road. Since your eyes are on your phone instead of the road, you hit the brakes a second too late and collide with the deer.
Besides reading a text message, your phone is one of the most common visual distractions. Any notification may tempt you to pull your eyes from the road. Other visual distractions may include looking at your directions, checking your appearance in the mirror, or putting on makeup.
Always make a conscious effort to keep your eyes on the road. If you have an urgent notification to check your phone, pull over to address it. Drivers may find it helpful to put their phones in “Do Not Disturb” mode to avoid getting distracted by notifications.
Manual Distractions
Unlike visual distractions, in which a driver takes their eyes off the road, manual distractions occur when the driver takes their hands off the steering wheel. When taking a hand or both hands off the wheel, a driver risks losing control of their steering.
There are a variety of unique instances in which a driver may take their hands off of the wheel, which may include:
- Eating
- Drinking
- Holding their phone
- Reaching for an object in their car
Before driving, you must be prepared and settled into your car to avoid manual distractions. Good time management skills will also help prevent you from needing to complete such tasks before getting into the driver’s seat.
Cognitive Distractions
Cognitive distractions are the third category that risk a driver’s safety and driving capabilities. When a motorist is focused on something other than driving, they can be considered distracted.
Unlike visual and manual distractions, you may have your eyes on the road and your hands on the steering wheel. However, you are still at risk of getting into an accident without focusing on your vehicle, surrounding vehicles, and the road signals around you.
Cognitive distractions can vary depending on the circumstance but most commonly include talking with passengers, on the phone, or daydreaming. To prevent cognitive distractions, avoid phone calls, keep your conversations to a minimum, and address your emotions before you start driving. Drivers will be safest when calm, collected, and diligently focused on the road.
Call Whetstone Perkins & Fulda for Help With a Distracted Driving Accident
Getting into an automobile accident can be very stressful. You may be dealing with injuries, medical bills, and automobile repairs. Distracted driving plays a key role in determining the fault of a collision. However, proving that a driver was distracted can be challenging.
With the help of a skilled personal injury attorney, you can have guidance on the best approach to collecting evidence and ultimately claiming your compensation. Whetstone Perkins & Fulda is dedicated to getting you the financial recovery you deserve. Contact us today to have your case reviewed and begin taking the right steps towards justice.
