When it comes to distracted driving, people often focus on the use of a phone. And it is true that cell phone use is a major reason for car accidents in the United States. The roads would be much safer if everyone simply stayed off of the phone.
However, it is important to remember that there are many other distractions, as well. Just turning off the phone is not enough.
Other people
First off, driving with anyone else in the car can mean you’re more distracted. Teens talking to their friends, parents taking care of crying children and co-workers chatting on the way to work can all cause accidents. It’s safer, in many ways, to drive alone.
In-car adjustments
Any device or system that you need to adjust can also be a distraction while you drive. For instance, if you need to adjust your mirrors, that takes your eyes off of the road. Other issues include changing the climate controls, picking a radio station and even adjusting the seat.
Eating and drinking
The drive-thru is not as safe as you may assume. Many people drink coffee on long drives or eat breakfast on the way to work, but this can distract you and it means you only have one hand on the steering wheel. Drinking alcohol is clearly a problem, but any type of drinking is dangerous.
Have you been injured by a distracted driver?
If you have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you need to know how to seek compensation. Just avoiding distractions yourself does not mean you can’t get hurt by a driver that’s not paying attention to the roads.
