Distracted driving covers doing anything that a driver may do that takes their attention off the road. Though most people may know how dangerous it can be to drive while distracted, they may not realize everything that actually counts or the dangers of doing it. It is important to know what counts as distracted driving to avoid doing it while on the road.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving means a person won't have enough time to see and react to what's going on around them. They may not see that the car in front of them has stopped or might end up running off the road. This can lead to severe injuries and damage to the vehicle. A Car Accident Lawyer may be needed by victims of a distracted driver to help them get compensation from the at-fault driver.
Interacting With Passengers
It may seem innocent enough to pass a snack back to the kids or to talk to whoever is sitting in the passenger seat. However, this does take the person's attention off the road and can lead to an accident.
Texting or Using the Phone
Most people realize that texting and driving can be distracting and cause an accident. However, many people still think it's okay to answer a quick text or use the phone to do something else while driving. It's not safe, no matter how fast someone is, and can lead to an accident.
Eating or Drinking
Eating or drinking takes a hand off the wheel, which can make it more challenging to react if the driver needs to swerve to avoid another driver or if they need to stop quickly. It can also be distracting if something falls or spills. Instead, find a spot to pull over and enjoy the food before driving again.
Applying Makeup
Looking in the mirror for basic grooming tasks or putting on makeup means attention is not on the road. This can make it harder to detect changes in the traffic flow or something that may end up in the street. Instead, do this at home before leaving.
Getting Something From a Bag or Wallet
Grabbing something really quick is going to cause the driver to take their eyes off the road, so they may not see what's ahead of them in time to react. This can cause an accident or cause the person to run off the road.
Checking the GPS
Turn on the volume for the GPS and listen to the instructions instead of trying to view the GPS while driving. In newer vehicles, it is easier to see and hear the GPS, but it's still not a good idea to look at it while driving.
Adjusting the Air Conditioner
Something as simple as adjusting the air conditioner can take the driver's attention away from what's happening around them. Make adjustments when getting in the vehicle or have a passenger handle it.
Watching Something Outside the Vehicle
Rubbernecking, or watching something that's happening outside the vehicle while driving past it, can lead to accidents. It is best to drive slowly if there is an emergency situation on the road and pay close attention to the surrounding vehicles to avoid causing an accident.
Daydreaming
Pay attention to what is in front and near the vehicle. Daydreaming takes attention away from the road, which means the driver may not be paying enough attention to what's happening around them.
Always pay attention while driving to avoid ending up causing an accident. Distracted driving can be incredibly dangerous, and it only takes a split second for something to happen. Stay safe while driving and watch out for others who may be driving while distracted to avoid being in an accident.
