Anytime something takes your attention away from the road, you become a danger to yourself and other drivers.
Distracted driving comes in many forms divided into three main categories: visual, manual, and cognitive. The risk for an auto accident increases significantly if you drive without remaining alert.
Visual distracted driving
Visual distractions are those things that take your eyes away from the road. For example, if you pass a car wreck with first responders on the scene and turn to look, you divert your eyes from the road and could cause another accident. Use of defensive driving is necessary and requires keeping your eyes on the road and the other drivers near you.
Manual distracted driving
Manual distractions include anything that takes your hands from the wheel. Some examples include:
- Eating while driving
- Adjusting the car radio
- Messing with the navigation in the car
- Talking or texting on a cell phone
- Reading or answering emails
- Reaching for something in the vehicle
- Grooming of any kind, including putting on makeup
Many manual distractions are also visual distractions. Even a simple act that will only take a second to complete can result in a catastrophic collision.
Cognitive distracted driving
Cognitive distractions are often the most difficult to avoid. If you have ever had the experience of suddenly realizing that you cannot remember the last few minutes you spent on the road driving, that cognitive disconnection can be very dangerous. Drivers must actively attempt to avoid daydreaming behind the wheel.
While you may take steps to prevent yourself from becoming distracted while driving, you have no control over other drivers on the road. When you suffer an injury in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you have the right to file a lawsuit in civil court.