Types of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving poses significant risks on the road, contributing to numerous accidents and fatalities each year. In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 3,522 lives were lost due to accidents involving distracted drivers, accounting for approximately 8 percent of all fatal incidents. Recognizing the various forms of distracted driving is crucial for promoting road safety. Let’s delve into the three primary categories identified by the NHTSA: manual, visual, and cognitive distractions.

If you sustained injuries in an accident in Colorado, contact the personal injury lawyers at Front Range Injury Attorneys today to schedule your free consultation. Our experienced legal team are knowledgeable and zealous advocates for our clients and their cases. We treat our clients as people, not case files. Learn more about how we can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact our Denver law firm to learn more.

Manual Distractions: Maintaining Control Behind the Wheel

Effective driving requires full control of the vehicle, including keeping both hands on the steering wheel. By adhering to this fundamental practice, drivers can respond promptly to changing road conditions and avoid potential hazards. For instance, firmly gripping the steering wheel can prevent accidents like head-on collisions, which often result from a vehicle veering into oncoming traffic. Maintaining control of the vehicle ensures the driver is in a position to safely avoid road hazards and sudden traffic conditions that may otherwise result in car accidents.

Common examples of manual distractions include holding a cell phone, eating, smoking, or engaging in activities like adjusting the radio or GPS. These distractions divert attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Undoubtedly the most common reason people maintain unsafe control of the steering wheel is operating a smartphone or other device while driving. Texting, searching for music, placing calls and other phone activities are among the most common causes of car accidents in Denver.

Visual Distractions: Keeping Focus on the Road Ahead

Maintaining visual focus is essential for promptly identifying and responding to traffic signals, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Any diversion of attention from the road increases the risk of accidents. Visual distractions can range from using electronic devices to reading or browsing the internet while driving. Whether it’s checking a text message, browsing social media, or looking at maps, these distractions compromise driver alertness and reaction times. Even a momentary lapse in visual attention can have severe consequences on the road.

Visual distractions can occur externally as well. Reading a billboard or traffic sign, rubbernecking a roadside accident and other distractions outside of the driver’s control can nevertheless result in a serious or even fatal crash resulting in a wrongful death accident.

Cognitive Distractions: Staying Mentally Engaged

In addition to physical and visual distractions, cognitive distractions pose significant dangers on the road. Mental preoccupation or emotional distress can impair decision-making abilities and reaction times, leading to risky behaviors such as running red lights or speeding. Interacting with passengers, talking on the phone, or experiencing emotional distress are common cognitive distractions. These mental states divert attention from driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Common cognitive distractions include:

• Talking on a phone
• Daydreaming
• Negative or hurtful emotions such as anger or frustration
• Interacting with passengers or a pet in the car
• Preoccupation with other events or ideas
• Tiredness or sleepiness

The difference between an alert driver and a distracted driver can be a second necessary to brake or safely stop before causing a rear end crash.

Promoting Safe Driving Practices

Recognizing and addressing the various forms of distracted driving are essential steps towards promoting road safety. By emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and minimizing distractions, drivers can reduce the risk of accidents and protect lives on the road. If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, seeking legal guidance is crucial. Consult with experienced attorneys like Front Range Injury Attorneys for a free case evaluation. Holding distracted drivers accountable for their actions can help ensure justice and prevent future accidents on Colorado’s roads.