Distracted driving affects too many Americans each year. Here in Virginia, individuals suffer damaging car accidents when they are hit by drivers who do not prioritize their driving responsibilities when they are behind the wheels of their vehicles. Most readers may know that a common form of distracted driving is cell phone use. Distracted driving is, however, much more than just texting behind the wheel.
Distracted driving can take on several different forms, and this post will identify some of them. Whenever a person is victimized in a distracted driving-related accident, they should understand that they may have rights to seek damages under the law. Their personal injury attorneys can support their needs, answer their questions, and prepare them to make important decisions about their legal options.
Visual distractions
One type of driving distraction impacts a driver’s vision. These are visual distractions, and they are distractions that pull drivers’ eyes off the roads. Visual distractions can come from technology like cell phones but can also come from off-road and in-vehicle distractions as well.
Cognitive distractions
Another type of distraction is cognitive distraction. As its name suggests, cognitive distractions impact the cognitive abilities of a driver. When a driver is daydreaming, focused on work tasks, worrying about their kids, or letting their mind wander away from driving, they may be suffering from a cognitive distraction.
Manual distractions
The final kind of distractions is manual distractions. Manual distractions specifically concern distractions that take drivers’ hands off their vehicles’ wheels. They can involve the use of technology, manipulating maps, eating or drinking, or using their hands for other tasks while driving.
Distracted driving is dangerous but also preventable. Individuals who drive while distracted can be held liable for the injuries they cause in motor vehicle accidents. Victims may have rights and can proactively seek out representatives to counsel them on their options.