The next time you are stuck in traffic, look at the drivers around you. It is likely that the majority of them are distracted in some way. Common driver distractions include texting and arguing with other passengers; there are other examples to follow. This is a major concern: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2023, distracted driving contributed to approximately nine percent of all fatal car crashes in the United States.
What Are the Categories of Driver Distraction?
Driver distractions are typically categorized into three primary types: visual, manual, and cognitive.
- Visual distractions involve anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road.
- Manual distractions occur when a driver takes their hands off the steering wheel.
- Cognitive distractions involve anything that diverts a driver’s mental focus from driving.
Each type of distraction can significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely – much of the time, they are combined. Think about a driver who is texting and driving; that would fit into all three categories.
What Are Some Examples of Visual Distractions?
Visual distractions are widespread and include activities like using a mobile phone to read or send texts, adjusting in-car systems, or looking at billboards and accidents.
Other examples include looking at billboards, street signs, or accidents that occur on the side of the road. Talking to passengers can also be a visual distraction if it causes the driver to glance away from the road.
How Do Manual Distractions Affect Driving?
Manual distractions happen when drivers remove their hands from the wheel. Examples include eating, drinking, handling objects, adjusting controls, or reaching for items inside the vehicle. Each of these actions can reduce the driver’s ability to steer and control the vehicle effectively.
What Are Cognitive Distractions and How Do They Impact Driving?
Cognitive distractions affect a driver’s mental focus and include daydreaming, personal concerns, or engaging in emotional conversations. Talking on a mobile phone, even hands-free, divides attention and impairs decision-making. Other examples are being preoccupied with personal matters or planning unrelated activities.
What Role Do Passengers Play in Driver Distractions?
Passengers can be a source of visual and cognitive distractions. Engaging in lively conversations or arguments can divert a driver’s attention away from the road. Children and pets can be constant sources of distraction when they require attention.
What Are the Legal Implications of Driving While Distracted?
Many jurisdictions have laws that address specific types of driver distractions, such as texting or using a mobile phone while driving. Violations of these laws can result in fines and penalties.
In addition to those consequences, drivers involved in accidents caused by distractions may face significant liability for damages and injuries. Drivers found to be at fault due to distractions may be required to cover their medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, and other damages resulting from the accident.
How Can Drivers Minimize Distractions?
To minimize distractions while driving, it is important to adopt safe driving practices. The strategies include:
- Setting up navigation and entertainment systems before starting to drive.
- Setting mobile phones to “do not disturb”.
- Keeping personal items secured and out of reach.
- Maintaining focus on the road and avoiding engaging in complex conversations while driving.
- Taking scheduled breaks on longer trips to catch up on messages, eat, and rest.
The Knowledgeable Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Represent Clients Injured by Distracted Drivers
The Delaware County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. understand the damage that distracted drivers cause. For more information, call our Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, offices at 610-565-3701 or submit our online form. We proudly serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.