Drivers have to give their full attention to their driving duties. Allowing distractions to overtake them can lead to significant dangers for them and others on the road with them.
Many drivers think they can safely multitask while driving. Some believe that they’re experienced enough to do this without anything happening. However, that’s hardly the case. Even experienced drivers can cause devastating crashes if they aren’t paying attention.
Categories of distractions
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes three distinct categories of distractions—manual, cognitive and visual. Some distractions fall into only one of those categories, but many fall into more than one.
Even things that some drivers do regularly can be distractions. These include things like looking at billboards, taking a sip of coffee, changing the stereo settings or checking their phone. It’s best for all drivers to remain solely focused on remaining safe as they drive.
Even short distractions can be devastating
Distractions of any length can lead to catastrophic crashes. If a distraction lasts only five seconds, a vehicle that’s traveling at 55 miles per hour can go 100 yards, which is the length of a full football field. During that time and distance, the vehicle is without proper control.
Any victim of a distracted driving crash should get immediate medical attention for any injuries they’re dealing with. The cost of this medical care can be extensive, so those victims may opt to pursue a compensation claim. It may be beneficial for them to work with someone familiar with these matters so they can get the case moving forward within the time allotted by state law.