When people think of distracted driving, a teenager texting on their phone is usually the first thing that comes to mind. While it is true that texting and driving is a dangerous combination, it’s not the only type of distracted driving on the roadways today.
What are the different types of distracted driving, and why are they so dangerous?
3 types of distractions
Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from driving, and can be divided into three main categories:
- Visual: Anything that takes your eyes off the road
- Manual: Activities that require you to take your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: Thoughts or tasks that take your mind off your primary task of driving
Texting is often used as an example because it involves all three types of distractions, but it’s not the only bad behavior you may see on the road. Here are examples of common distractions that are considered dangerous:
Eating and drinking
There are some days you are running non-stop, and the only opportunity to eat is by grabbing some fast food from the drive-thru and eating on your way to the following item on your to-do list. However, while you’re opening food packages, managing spills or taking a sip of coffee, at least one hand is off the steering wheel and your eyes aren’t on the road.
Adjusting the radio or climate controls
Changing the radio station from a boring talk show, turning up the volume to sing along with your favorite song and adjusting your vehicle’s temperature only divert your attention for a few brief moments. But that’s long enough to miss traffic signals or the car in front of you suddenly braking.
Using your navigation system
Technology has improved our ability to find places without getting lost. Many family vacations disintegrated into arguments over one person’s ability to read a map. However, programming a destination into your vehicle’s navigational system while driving is a significant distraction, as well as looking repeatedly at directions.
Distracted driving is preventable, yet it’s the cause of a significant number of accidents, injuries and fatalities each year. If you have been in an accident caused by another driver’s inattention, you need to speak with a legal professional. They can guide you through the legal process and help secure fair compensation for your injuries.
