Drivers from all walks of life utilize the roads across Missouri each day. Fortunately, most trips are completed without serious issues. Sadly, others result in traffic collisions.
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes in the U.S. In fact, thousands of collisions occur each year with distracted driving as a root cause. It is important to identify exactly what is meant by distracted driving. Distractions come in numerous forms, with the more common types outlined below.
Physical distractions
Simply put, physical distractions are bodily movements that require you to sacrifice some control of the vehicle. For instance, you may reach into the glove compartment to grab your sunglasses or a tissue. This may not sound like a serious issue, but not having both of your hands free to operate the steering wheel significantly increases the chances of a collision.
Cognitive distractions
When driving alone, it is very easy for the mind to wander. You may be facing a tight deadline that you know you’re not going to make, causing you to think about the consequences. Even something simple like contemplating what to eat when you get home can cause you to lose focus on what’s in front of you. Any thought or feeling that results in you losing focus on the journey ahead could increase the chances of being caught up in a collision.
Visual distractions
When driving, there are various visual aspects to take in. Many of them will not be relevant to your trip, while others will be vital. It is important to filter out visual aspects that only serve to distract you. For example, you may be struck by how stunning a distant building appears. Taking your eyes off the road in front of you for even a second is likely to place you in harm’s way.
Being aware of the more common driver distractions could ensure your safety when traveling. If you have been involved in a collision caused by another driver, be sure to explore your legal options in Missouri.