In today’s fast-paced world, driving demands one’s full attention. However, distractions are a common challenge, often leading to road accidents. Understanding the types of distractions that may compromise one’s safety can help drivers stay safer on the roads.
Generally, distractions fall into three categories: visual, cognitive and manual. Understanding these is critical for drivers and anyone who’s on the roads.
Visual distractions
This type involves anything that takes your eyes off the road. It could be as simple as checking a GPS device, glancing at a text message or looking at a billboard. Even seemingly harmless actions like checking your appearance in the mirror can momentarily divert your attention, increasing the risk of an accident.
Cognitive distractions
These are distractions that take your mind off driving. Engaging in a deep conversation, whether with a passenger or on a hands-free device, can be a significant cognitive distraction. Even when your eyes are on the road, your mind may not fully process your driving environment.
Manual distractions
These distractions involve taking your hands off the wheel. Eating, drinking, adjusting the radio or climate controls or reaching for something in the car all fall into this category. Manual distractions compromise your ability to steer and react quickly. Even a brief moment with one hand off the wheel can significantly reduce your control, especially in emergencies.
Even drivers who are fully attentive to the road are at risk of being involved in a distracted driving crash if other drivers aren’t paying attention. These crashes can be significant, and victims may require medical care. They may be in a strong position to seek compensation for the financial impacts of the wreck from the at-fault distracted driver in question. As a result, seeking legal guidance under these circumstances is generally wise.