Types of Distracted Driving That Cause Car Accidents: How to Save Yourself?

January 8, 2025    litigation lawyers
Types of Distracted Driving That Cause Car Accidents: How to Save Yourself?

If you question one of the main causes of road accidents in recent years, then distracted driving will rank at the top. However, if you are not at fault, you can consult a car accident lawyer to handle the situation. Mobile phones, navigation systems, and tech included in the vehicle are some of the major reasons for the distractions among drivers.
This blog shall discuss the different types of distracted driving and ways to save yourself.

Types of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can then be explained as a situation whereby a driver’s concentration shifts from one thing to another, which is a vehicle’s primary focus, control, or navigation. This can include any activity, such as texting, eating while driving, etc. Research indicates that split-second distraction triples the probability of a car crash occurring.

1. Visual Distractions

Visual distractors include occurrences that make you look away from the road. Common examples include:

  • Having notifications on your phone on your messages, calls, or any other update.
  • Examining a GPS device for direction
  • Looking at a child or a pet who might be placed in the back seat of the vehicle.
  • Sometimes, people check for objects within the car.

2. Manual Distractions

They are the diversions that happen when the hands are not on the steering wheel. This could include:

  • A general misconception that people should consume food or take beverages while on the wheels
  • Substituting the radio, air conditioning, or navigation control
  • Reaching for a bag or extending for a phone.

If both hands are off the wheel, your capability to respond to an unexpected event, such as the car in front hard braking, is greatly compromised. Consult a car accident injury claim lawyer if you are caught in the accident.

3. Cognitive Distractions

Primary distraction is sometimes referred to as cognitive distraction, which includes any factor that draws your attention away from the road. These include:

  • Driving with a focus on something other than driving or having your mind on something else while driving
  • Protesting, quarreling, or even discussing issues needed among the passengers
  • Driving under the influence of Stoner and/or emotional pressure and /or driven fatigue
  • Using the cellular phone while on a call, even if with a Bluetooth device

How Distracted Driving Leads to Accidents

Distracted driving reduces a driver’s ability to:

  • Recognise road hazards
  • Respond as early as possible to the changes in traffic situation
  • Keep your lane all the time

For instance, the driver texting may be unaware of a pedestrian crossing the road or a car slowing down just in front of him. These brief moments of distraction can cause back-end collisions, sideswipes, or even fatal accidents.

Steps to Protect Yourself from Distracted Driving

  • Stay Focused

The single best advice I can give you is: Focus on the road. Do not operate your phone while driving or change settings in the car; if you need to, then find a safe spot to stop.

  • Use Technology Wisely

If you use GPS, you should program your destination before you start moving. Most of today’s cars have voice commands, so try to avoid manual interference as often as possible.

  • Eliminate Temptations

Turn off your phone or use apps that hinder notification reception while on the road. Store food and drinks in the trunk or back seat to discourage eating while driving.

  • Take Regular Breaks

Stay focused while driving. For one, you may end up feeling very tired after driving for many hours, thus causing distractions by loss of focus. Now and then, get back on track to minimize being tuned out, more so in cases where extended travel is being conducted.

  • Be a Defensive Driver

Be always on the lookout and be ready for anything. Anytime, stay away from other cars and avoid those that are assertive as they might be involved in other activities. If you follow these methods but still meet with accidents due to the other party’s fault, you can consult a car accident recovery lawyer to handle the matter.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Distracted Driving Accident

  • Seek Medical Attention

That means even if you do not have any symptoms, it is recommended that you check for possible injuries. Certain injuries, like internal injuries or whiplash, may not display themselves at first.

  • Gather Evidence

Photograph the accident scene and scrapes, vehicle damages, and other observable miscellaneous injuries. If there are witnesses, one should get their contacts.

  • Consult a Car Accident Lawyer in Perth

A car accident injury claim lawyer can represent clients, guide legal procedures, assess losses, and file compensation claims. Whether negotiating with a doctor, claiming lost wages, or addressing emotional trauma, having a lawyer is beneficial.

Conclusion

Distraction or distracted driving poses considerable dangers that can be mitigated, yet it continues to cause severe accidents on the roads. The following details will assist you in minimizing your risk of involvement in a car accident. If an accident does occur, consider consulting a car accident lawyer.

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