When many people hear the phrase “distracted driving,” they picture someone looking at their smartphone while they’re behind the wheel. And that’s certainly one of the most common and dangerous forms of distracted driving. However, it’s not the only form!
The three main forms of distraction are:
- Visual—This can range from reading a text message or email to rubbernecking a nearby accident scene to even gazing out the window away from the road. Anything that takes your eyes off the task at hand—which is driving—can be considered a visual distraction.
- Manual—This refers to taking your hands off the wheel. Even if your eyes are on the road and you’re reaching for something in the passenger seat, glove box, or middle console, you’re still distracted. When your hands aren’t on the wheel, you aren’t steering and you can’t react quickly.
- Cognitive—Cognitive distractions are anything that takes your mind off of driving. That means you can have your eyes on the road ahead, your hands on the wheel, and still be distracted if you aren’t focusing on what’s happening ahead of you. Common cognitive distractions are phone or in-person conversations, listening to audiobooks, and even daydreaming.
Because most of us drive daily, it’s easy to take it for granted, including all of the dangers associated with it. All it takes is a brief moment of distraction, whether it’s visual, manual, cognitive, or a combination of the three, to lose control and crash, injuring yourself and others in the process.
At Ponce Law, our Nashville auto accident lawyers fight for all innocent injured victims, including those hurt by distracted drivers. If you were injured by a driver who wasn’t paying attention, we want to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
