Distracted driving is one of the biggest causes of car accidents. These kinds of accidents can lead to read-end and head-on collisions and sideswiping. Victims of distracted driving accidents can suffer from minor injuries, such as bruises and cuts, but also major injuries, such as traumatic brain and spine injuries.
Unfortunately, you can’t predict when another driver is distracted. However, you can reduce your distractions when driving. As such, you should understand the three kinds of distractions that occur when driving. Here’s what you should know:
Visual distraction
One of the easiest distractions is caused by visual stimuli. A visual distraction causes drivers to take their eyes off the road. Looking away from the road for even just a second can cause an accident.
Phones are perhaps the largest cause of visual distractions. Likewise, looking at a billboard or street sign can lead to an accident. In some cases, looking at the radio or air control can result in a visual distraction.
Manual distraction
The next kind of distraction is caused by taking your hands off the wheel, also known as a manual distraction. A manual distraction leaves people vulnerable and can lower their reaction time. In most cases, a manual distraction occurs when someone is texting, but may also result from eating and driving or changing the radio station – all of which may cause visual distractions too.
Cognitive distractions
The last kind of distraction is cognitive. Any time your mind wanders away from the road is considered a cognitive distraction. This can happen if you suddenly hear your phone ring and wonder who’s calling or texting. Alternatively, for example, you may be mentally distracted if you’re thinking more about what you’re going to do once you get home rather than what’s in front of you.
