Many people recognize that phones and other electronic devices cause many drivers to become distracted, but you need to understand the other ways in which drivers become distracted behind the wheel. Every year, these accidents cause many victims to suffer devastating injuries and lose their lives, and it is paramount for everyone to focus on the road and avoid various distractions while operating a motor vehicle.
Distractions take many different forms, whether they involve losing mental focus, taking hands off of the steering wheel or a driver taking his or her eyes off of the road.
Looking at different examples of distracted driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers distracted driving, a serious problem that claimed over 3,100 lives during 2019. Aside from texting and talking on the phone, the NHTSA reports that some drivers become distracted as a result of talking to other people in their car, eating, drinking and adjusting the stereo. In fact, some drivers become distracted while using a navigation system or trying to read a map.
The dangers of distracted driving
When a driver takes their eyes off of the road for a few seconds, the risk of an accident goes up. When driving at 55 miles per hour, it only takes five seconds for a vehicle to travel the entire length of a football field. Therefore, even a very brief distraction can significantly increase the likelihood of a traffic collision.
If a distracted driver caused a crash that left you or someone in your family injured, you need to take a look at resources that could help in the recovery process.
