Have you ever thought about how distracted driving contributes to so many accidents on the road in the United States? It is estimated that nearly 9 people lose their lives, and over 1,000 are injured every day due to distracted driving. After a distracted driving accident, victims and their families are left with devastating consequences that could have been easily avoided.
Let’s look at some of the dangers of multitasking while driving and why it is a dangerous habit that should be avoided.
The Dangers of Multitasking While Driving
Cognitive Distraction
Cognitive distractions occur when the mind wanders from the primary task of driving. Two examples of cognitive distraction are engaging in a phone conversation – hands-free or not – or daydreaming.
The danger with these is that they usurp mental resources that should be allocated to monitoring the road and traffic conditions.
Visual Distraction
Visual distractions take your eyes off the road. Whether it’s gazing at an incoming text, looking at a roadside accident, or finding a lost item in the car, visual distractions are a leading cause of preventable accidents.
Manual Distraction
Anything that causes you to take your hands off the wheel is a manual distraction. From tuning the radio to reaching for objects, each act is a potential time bomb, as your reaction time in the event of an emergency is significantly compromised.
Common Multitasking Behaviors
Below are common multitasking behaviors that drivers engage in, often without fully realizing the associated risks.
Texting and Driving
The most notorious of all distracted driving behaviors, texting behind the wheel, requires visual, cognitive, and manual attention, which makes it especially hazardous.
Talking on the Phone
Even with a hands-free device, phone conversations can be just as dangerous. They pose a significant cognitive distraction, often leading to ‘inattention blindness,’ where the driver overlooks potential hazards.
Eating and Drinking
The cultural norm of consuming meals on the go is dangerous when driving. Spills can lead to unexpected movements as you attempt to dodge the hot coffee landing in your lap.
Grooming
It may seem harmless, but trying to fix your hair or applying makeup while driving can cause accidents. These distracting and visual tasks take your focus off the road – a risk not worth taking.
Using Navigation Systems
Maps are indispensable tools, but they also demand your attention, especially when rerouting or making quick decisions.
The Legal System Can Help
In some cases, it may be possible to recover losses and injuries sustained in distracted driving accidents. This is where the legal system comes into play. If you have been involved in an accident caused by distracted driving, you should consult a distracted driving accident lawyer experienced in handling these cases.
A distracted driving accident attorney can help gather and present evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight to get the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Risk!
Multitasking while driving is a dangerous habit that should be avoided at all costs. The consequences of distracted driving can be life-changing, not just for the driver but also for their passengers and other road users.
But if you find yourself a victim of such an accident, remember to seek the help of an experienced distracted driver lawyer who can guide you through the legal system and help you get justice. They can get you the compensation you deserve and hold the negligent party accountable for their actions.
Please note that nothing is worth risking your safety or the safety of others on the road.
So the next time you feel tempted to multitask while behind the wheel, think twice and prioritize your safety above everything else. Let’s all do our part to make the roads safer for everyone.
Stay focused and stay safe!
We are not lawyers and this is in no way intended to be used as legal advice . We cannot be held responsible for your results. Always do your own research and seek professional legal help.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
