Drivers must be able to watch what’s going on around them so they can make safe decisions about how to operate their vehicles. Distracted drivers kill an average of nine people each day in this country, and many more are injured. Each one of those fatalities and injuries was preventable if the driver had simply paid attention to the road.
There are many distractions that drivers face. Many people recognize cell phones as a distraction, but many others are also possible. These include things like looking at billboards, talking to other passengers and eating a snack.
Categories of distractions
There are three categories of distractions. Some activities fall into only one of these but others will involve all three. These include:
- Cognitive distractions: These take the driver’s mind and focus off operating the vehicle.
- Manual distractions: These take the driver’s hands off the steering wheel.
- Visual distractions: These take the driver’s eyes away from the road.
Even if you’re focusing on driving, other drivers might not be doing the same. They can put you at risk of being involved in a crash. If you see signs that someone is driving unsafely, such as swerving, speeding or driving aggressively, try to stay away from them.
People who are injured in a distracted driving crash should ensure they get medical care. Filing a claim for compensation is possible, but you must get this done quickly because California has strict time limits for these cases. Working with someone who can help you to get things together can reduce your stress and ensure you get things handled.
