A Guide to Distracted Driving

A Guide to Distracted Driving

With as many billboards as there are advising us to not become distracted and drive at the same time, most of us are familiar with the concept at this point. But did you know that there are several different types of this offense that can be committed? Understandably, cell phones take most of the heat on the topic of distracted driving, but they’re not the only kind. They check all the boxes which identify exactly what distracted driving is by definition.

Manual Distractions

Manual distractions quite literally encompass any action that requires one or both hands being removed from the steering wheel. Cell phones are a given, but think about all the other things we do in the car that requires our hands? Fixing your make-up, adjusting the radio, eating, or even reaching for something in the back seat. These tasks seem innocent, but they can be distracting, and the defense won’t let up if they find out you were preoccupied while operating a powerful vehicle. Parents are especially susceptible here because of all the many ways they must tend to the needs of their children in a vehicle.

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions can generally be defined as anything that causes you to take your eyes off the road. Typically, visual distractions involve manual distractions, but some are specifically visual. For instance, looking in the back seat, a glove compartment, or the center console. An example we’re all guilty of— checking out accidents, emergency vehicles, or hazards on the side of the road. Regardless of how important the stimulus is, these distractions cause us to lose focus and potentially harm ourselves and others.

Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions are described as a loss of focus when driving. Sleepiness or staring off are common while operating a vehicle, especially on long or late night drives. Cognitive distractions are hard to prove because it’s difficult to show what a driver was focused on before an accident, but they are dangerous nonetheless.

At John Bales office, we can ensure you receive the attention you deserve if you were injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver. When drivers drive distracted, our attorneys will hold them accountable. An experienced injury lawyer who cares about your case can help you make sense of your accident. Call us today at (800) 225-5654 or visit www.JohnBales.com for a free consultation.