Beyond Texting: Other Forms of Distracted Driving That Increase Accident Risk

 Posted on August 30, 2023 in Car Accident

It is well-documented that distracted driving is a significant contributor to road accidents. While texting while driving is widely recognized as a dangerous behavior and a cause of many distracted driving car accidents, other forms of distractions can divert a driver’s attention from the road, thereby increasing the risk of accidents. Today, we will explore some common sources of distracted driving that do not include texting. As always, if you have been injured in a distracted driving car accident, contact a personal injury attorney to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Talking on the Phone

Whether handheld or hands-free, using a mobile phone for voice calls can significantly distract drivers. Engaging in conversations diverts a driver’s cognitive focus from the road, impairing attention and reaction times. Research shows that even hands-free conversations can lead to

inattentiveness and reduce situational awareness, increasing the risk of accidents.

Consuming Food or Beverages

Eating food or drinking a beverage while driving can also impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Taking hands off the wheel to handle food or drinks diverts attention and compromises the driver’s reaction time. Spills, hot liquids, or unstable food items can cause sudden distractions, leading to a loss of control, reduced visibility, or a delayed response to potential hazards.

Adjusting In-Car Technology

Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced technology, like GPS navigation systems, infotainment centers, and climate controls. Manipulating these features while driving can divert a driver’s visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the road. Focusing on dashboard displays or touchscreens takes the drivers’ eyes off the road, increasing the risk of accidents.

Interacting with Passengers

Passengers in the vehicle, especially those engaging in lively conversations, can divert a driver’s cognitive attention. Engaging in deep conversations, arguments, or attending to the needs of passengers, such as attending to children or pets, can cause significant distractions. It is crucial for drivers to maintain focus and ensure that conversations with passengers do not compromise their attention and reaction abilities.

Contact a Larimer County Personal Injury Lawyer

Ultimately, distracted driving in any form poses a grave threat to both drivers and the public. While texting and driving often receive the most media coverage regarding distracted driving accidents, it is important for people not to lose sight of other forms as well. Contact the experienced Ft. Collins personal injury attorney with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. for representation in your personal injury case. Call 970-225-2190 for a free consultation.

Source - https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/distracted_driving/index.html#:~:text=Anything%20that%20takes%20your%20attention,few%20examples%20of%20distracted%20driving.