Distractions can significantly hinder a driver’s ability to get from one place to another safely.
When a driver’s attention is diverted for more than 2 seconds, the crash risk dramatically increases. You’ve heard the warning before to stay off your phone when you are driving and other safety tips, but there are other distractions that drivers need to be aware of. These distractions can happen both in and outside of the vehicle.
Unfortunately, even the most cautious drivers can fall victim to accidents caused by distracted motorists.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s negligence, you deserve trusted legal representation to secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
At Owen, Patterson & Owen (OPO) Law, our experienced car accident attorneys have successfully represented victims of distracted driving accidents throughout California. We are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and ensuring our clients receive justice and fair compensation.
If you have been in a distracted driving accident, contact OPO Law today for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your deserved compensation.
Understanding Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a serious road concern, posing a significant threat to drivers, passengers, and other road users.
It is defined as any activity that diverts a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving, including visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. Various factors, including cell phone use, eating, personal grooming, and conversations with passengers, can cause distracted driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents, resulting in thousands of injuries and fatalities each year.
Types of Driver Distraction
There are several types of driver distraction, including:
Visual distractions
These occur when a driver takes their eyes off the road, such as when looking at a cell phone or other object.
Manual distractions
These occur when drivers take their hands off the steering wheel, such as when eating or grooming.
Cognitive distractions
These occur when a driver’s mind is not focused on the road, such as when daydreaming or engaging in conversations with passengers.
Distracted Driving: Distractions From Inside the Car
First, we have a list of potential distractions that can occur from inside the vehicle:
Adjusting the radio can be a significant distraction.
This includes changing the radio channel, changing CDs, and even plugging in an auxiliary cord.
Adjusting audio or climate controls, such as the radio or air conditioning, can also be a significant distraction.
Other people in the car with you can divert your attention away from the road.
It is essential to stay focused on the road first and foremost.
Back seat passengers, especially children, can also divert your attention away from the road.
Most people have eaten and drank while driving.
However, the moment you take a hand off the wheel to put food in your mouth, your attention is now on the food, not driving.
Pets can also be dangerous distractions.
If your pet is not contained well, it is free to move about the car and distract your attention.
Outside Distractions While Driving: Cell Phone Use
Outside of the vehicle, there are just as many distractions that may take your eye off of the road.
It’s hard not to notice these things when you are driving, but do your best to not let them distract you from safely driving your own vehicle.
Below are distractions that happen from outside of the vehicle:
Crash scenes are often the main diverter of a driver’s attention.
People are curious to see what happened and how serious the accident is. Taking your eyes off of the road to look at another accident might cause a distracted driving accident.
Road construction is unavoidable, but the choice to let it distract you is avoidable.
Driving through construction or in a construction zone is a crucial time for you to be cautious and to follow any instructions that might be posted, such as an adjusted speed limit. Driving through construction zones requires extra caution to avoid a potential vehicle collision.
Places of interest along the road might be something you want to look at.
However, it is much safer to pull off of the road to see the point of interest. Besides, taking a short break from driving and going to the landmark will help you enjoy it even more!
When driving, be aware that there are many distractions that might come your way. It is key to remain focused on your driving and the drivers around you so that an accident is avoided.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an auto accident, feel free to contact us or call (800) 676-5295 to learn how our experienced attorneys can help you if you have been involved in a car accident.
Avoiding Distracted Driving
To avoid distracted driving, drivers can take several steps:
- Put away electronic devices while driving, including cell phones and GPS systems.
- Avoid eating or drinking while driving.
- Minimize conversations with passengers, especially for teen drivers.
- Take regular breaks to rest and refocus.
- Use voice commands or hands-free devices to minimize manual distractions.
- Keep the vehicle clean and organized to reduce visual distractions.
- Avoid driving when tired or fatigued.
- Set a good example for passengers, especially children, by practicing safe driving habits.
Distracted Driving Laws and Consequences
Distracted driving laws vary by state, but most prohibit the use of cell phones while driving, especially for teen drivers.
In North Carolina, for example, drivers under 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving, and drivers 18 and older may talk on a cell phone while driving but not send text messages.
The consequences of distracted driving can be severe, including fines, license suspension, and increased insurance rates.
In addition, distracted driving can result in car accidents, injuries, and fatalities, which can have long-lasting emotional and financial consequences.
Need expert legal advice? Don’t navigate the complexities alone.
Need expert legal advice?
Don't navigate the complexities alone.