The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a term used to refer to any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from safely operating a motor vehicle. Distracted driving is a significant cause of car accidents, and it’s important to understand the three types of distractions that can occur behind the wheel: visual, manual, and cognitive. Let’s take a closer look at each and how to avoid them.

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions take your eyes off the road in front of you. Checking your phone for a text message or glancing at someone in the other lane are common visual distractions.

To avoid these, start by putting away any devices or objects that may draw your attention away from driving. If you have passengers in the car, assign one person responsible for tasks like adjusting the radio or looking up directions on their phone. That way, you can stay focused on what’s happening in front of you.

Manual Distractions

Manual distractions occur when you take your hands off the wheel while driving. This could be as simple as changing a song on your playlist or reaching over to grab something from the back seat while going down the highway.

To prevent manual distractions, keep both hands firmly on the wheel at all times — no texting, eating, drinking, or anything else that requires two hands to do safely!

Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions happen when your mind is not fully focused on driving—such as talking with passengers or trying to remember an errand you need to run later in the day. These are some of the hardest kinds of distracted driving to catch because they don’t involve physical actions like taking your eyes off the road or moving your hands from the wheel.

To avoid cognitive distractions, try not to overload yourself mentally before getting behind the wheel; if possible, save conversations until after you reach your destination safely!

Atlanta Car Accident Attorney

All three types of distracted driving — visual, manual, and cognitive — can lead to dangerous situations. Even if you do everything right, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident, hiring an experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal processes and get the compensation you deserve.

Contact the auto accident attorneys at Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC for expert representation in your personal injury case. Do not suffer severe or debilitating injuries alone!

Call us at (888) 425-6070 or online using our secure contact form.