Texting and driving is well known as one of the most common and dangerous distractions. Drivers who are texting will often veer out of their lane, run stop signs or make other errors that lead to accidents. Even if you never text behind the wheel, you face injuries risks because you have to share the road with these other drivers.
Part of the issue is that texting is not just one driving distraction. It is actually three different types of distracted driving, which may be happening simultaneously.
The 3 categories
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the main three categories for distracted driving are manual distractions, visual distractions and cognitive distractions. Cellphones can fit into each of these areas.
For example, drivers hold their phone in one hand while texting. Even with the other hand on the wheel, this means that they are not fully in control of the car, and so it is a manual or physical distraction.
At the same time, the driver will glance down at their screen and then back at the road. This divides their attention and qualifies as a visual distraction.
Finally, the driver is thinking about the text message they are reading, what they want to write or the conversation that they are having. This takes mental energy away from driving their vehicle. Since they are not focused on the road, it is a cognitive distraction.
Have you been injured in an accident?
Have you suffered serious injuries in an accident caused by a distracted driver? You may deserve compensation for medical bills, lost wages and related costs, so be sure you know what legal steps to take.