Distracted driving is a prevalent concern across the nation, and according to a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 3,308 deaths caused by distracted driving in 2022 alone. As defined by the NHTSA, distracted driving is any activity that diverts your attention from driving. There are countless ways in which you may become distracted while driving, but they are best categorized into three categories – visual, manual, and cognitive. In this article, we will explore what these different categories are and some specific examples of each.
Visual Distractions
Visual distractions are the first main type of distracted driving and they encompass any activity that causes a driver to take their eyes off the road. This type of distraction is particularly dangerous in that looking away from the road for even a split second can greatly impact your ability to respond and adapt to unexpected situations. Some of the most common examples of visual distractions include:
- Texting or using your mobile phone while driving
- Looking at your GPS screen for directions
- Looking at your car controls while making adjustments to the temperature, volume, etc.
- Staring at billboards, roadside attractions, or accidents
Manual Distractions
The next type of distracted driving that is incredibly common is manual distractions. These distractions occur whenever you take one or both hands off of your steering wheel while driving. Having both of your hands on the steering wheel at all times is pivotal in ensuring you have adequate control of your vehicle. Common manual distractions include but are not limited to:
- Eating or drinking
- Reaching for items in your vehicle
- Digging through your car to find something
- Adjusting any part of your vehicle, including seat belts, mirrors, and car controls
Cognitive Distractions
The last main type of distracted driving is cognitive distractions. These types of distractions are easily overlooked and can be difficult to recognize or attribute to the cause of an accident. Cognitive distractions encompass anything that takes your mind, focus, and concentration away from the road while driving. Whether you are daydreaming or ruminating about a stressful event in your life, cognitive distractions can be just as dangerous as the other types. Some cognitive distractions include:
- Zoning out or daydreaming
- Talking on the phone (even with hands-free devices) or to a passenger
- Listening to music or a podcast
- Looming stress or overbearing emotions that are preoccupying your mind
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Undoubtedly, the biggest concern when it comes to distracted driving is the heightened risk of an accident occurring. When you are distracted while driving, your ability to operate a motor vehicle is significantly hindered and you are far more likely to wind up in a serious accident. If you are injured in an accident involving a distracted driver, it is important that you seek legal guidance from a Wilmington car accident attorney who can help you navigate the process of filing a claim. In addition, having the experience of an experienced attorney on your side will help ensure that your rights are protected and that you recover the maximum amount of compensation for any injuries you sustained.