When you look at specific examples of how people get distracted behind the wheel, they are nearly endless. One driver is distracted by a phone call while another is reading a text message. Still another driver is distracted by their children in the back seat, and the driver behind them is generally lost in thought, thinking about work or daily stress in their life.
As such, it is usually easier to think about distraction in categories. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified these three main categories for driving distractions.
1. Cognitive distractions
To begin with, some distractions are mental, like the example above about the driver who is lost in thought. A mental distraction could also include listening to music or even using a cellphone, as studies have shown that the mental distraction lasts for around 27 seconds even after someone stops using the phone.
2. Manual distractions
Manual distractions mean the driver is doing something other than driving the car. They could be reaching to adjust the mirrors or the seat. They could be handing snacks or drinks to children who are riding in the car with them. They may just be trying to pick up something, like a cellphone, that they dropped on the ground.
3. Visual distractions
Finally, many things will compete for a driver’s attention. A flashing billboard is a visual distraction, as is a previous accident; many secondary crashes happen when drivers are gawking at accidents that have already taken place. Something like texting and driving is also a major visual distraction.
You should avoid these distractions when you drive, but you could still be injured by another negligent driver. If you are, take the time to carefully look into all of your legal options to seek financial compensation for medical bills and more.
