If you have ever engaged in an activity that diverted your attention away from the task of driving such as using your electronics or turning to speak to a passenger, you are engaging in the unsafe driving practice of distracted driving. Research has shown that in 2020 distracted driving was responsible for 3,000 deaths and 324,000 injuries. Being as dangerous as it is, reckless driving is illegal. Despite reckless driving being illegal, many motorists still engage in this unsafe driving practice which often results in serious collisions. In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a car accident as a result of distracted driving, contact one of our trusted Santa Clara County Car Accident Attorneys who can help you seek reasonable compensation for your damages. In addition, please continue reading to learn about the dangers of distracted driving.
What is distracted driving?
Distractions can come in various forms which is why they have been classified into different categories. Distractions may be classified as visual, cognitive, manual, or auditory distractions. Visual distractions cause a motorist to take their eyes off the road. For instance, when a motorist uses their electronics or turns to engage in conversation with passengers, it is considered a visual distraction. Cognitive distractions cause a motorist’s mind to wander and lose focus on the road. For instance, when a motorist is daydreaming or preoccupied with emotional thoughts, it is considered a cognitive distraction. Manual distractions cause a motorist to remove both of their hands from the steering wheel. For instance, when a motorist turns to grab something from their backseat or eats/drinks, it is considered a manual distraction. Auditory distractions are sounds that cause a motorist to divert their attention from the road. For instance, if a motorist is listening to music loudly or listening to a phone conversation.
One of the most dangerous types of distractions that fall under visual, cognitive, and manual distractions is texting and driving. Unfortunately, texting while driving causes a substantial amount of collisions on the road as motorists do not have their full attention on the primary task of driving. Ultimately, distracted driving causes a substantial amount of collisions as motorists do not have sufficient time to react to changing traffic conditions and road hazards. Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of off-the-road collisions where a motorist diverts from the roadway and crashes into a stationary object such as a telephone pole, tree, or cement barrier. These accidents are the most dangerous accidents to occur on the road. To prevent serious accidents and injuries, motorists must refrain from engaging in distracted driving as it puts everyone on the road’s lives at risk including their own.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car accident as a result of distracted driving, reach out to one of our skilled and dedicated attorneys. Our firm is committed to helping our clients get the justice they deserve.
