Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. In 2015, there were nearly 400,000 injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents involving a distracted driver. In 2016, close to 4,000 people were killed in an accident involving a distracted driver. The facts are harsh, but the consequences are real.
We must work to reduce the number of motor vehicle accidents caused by distracted driving. If you find yourself commonly distracted while driving – stop now. There are three types of distracted driving that commonly cause car accidents.
Cognitive Distraction
A cognitive distraction or mental distraction is when a driver is not focused on driving, but something else. Cognitive distractions are one of the leading distractions while driving. The reason it is so common is because it can happen without you really realizing it’s a distraction.
The most common cognitive distraction that causes car accidents is becoming preoccupied with a conversation occurring in your vehicle. When you are driving, try to keep the conversation to a minimum and always focus on the road instead of a conversation. If you drive while listening to the radio, music, a podcast or any sort of audio that requires attention, it can take your focus off of the road. If you find this is happening to you while driving, turn off whatever you are listening to.
Other common cognitive distractions are: talking on the phone, daydreaming, road rage, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Visual Distraction
A visual distraction is when a driver is looking at anything other than the road. Taking your eye off the road even for a very short time is dangerous. While driving it is important to keep your eyes on the road at all times. One of the most common visual distractions is changing the music or radio station you are listening to.
Other common visual distractions include: looking at your phone, focusing on billboards or scenery along the road, and adjusting settings in your car.
Manual Distractions
A manual distraction is when a driver takes their hands off of the wheel. Taking your hands off the wheel can easily cause you to lose control of your vehicle. On top of that, if a hazard pops up you won’t be able to quickly steer away safely. The most common manual distraction is eating or drinking while driving.
Other common manual distractions include: using your cell phone and smoking.
Texting and Driving
There are many unsafe distractions while driving – but texting and driving is the most dangerous. Texting and driving is a combination of cognitive, manual, and visual distractions. If you text and drive, please understand that you’re putting yourself and others at risk. Stop texting and driving today!
Contact Tampa Injury Attorney Dan Zohar
Now that you have been provided with many examples of distracted driving it is in your best interest to avoid distracting behaviors that may cause an accident. If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim.
Working with an experienced Tampa personal injury lawyer is highly recommended when dealing with a personal injury case. Dan Zohar of DZ Firm has over 30 years of experience dealing with personal injury cases and is ready to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call DZ Firm today and schedule a free consultation with Tampa personal injury attorney, Dan Zohar. Call now at (800) 963-3311!