What Are the Types of Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving contributes to the majority of car accidents in Fairfield, CT. If you are involved in an accident, you may wonder what caused the other driver to crash into you. Learning about the various kinds of distracted driving can help your case.

Prove liability with the help of an experienced car accident lawyer in Fairfield. At Brill Law Group, we know all about the causes of car accidents and will investigate your case to prove responsibility. Then, you can fight for the compensation you deserve to pay your medical and care repair bills.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from operating the vehicle safely. These distractions can be visual, manual, or cognitive, and they often result in serious accidents.

In Fairfield, CT, distracted driving is a growing concern as technology and busy lifestyles contribute to dangerous road behavior. Do you want to be safe on the road? Safe practices start with you.

What Are the Different Types of Distracted Driving?

Unfortunately, while driving, you may encounter dozens of distractions. Focusing and taking your responsibility as a driver seriously is the only way to navigate the roads safely.

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions take your eyes off the road. You already have a responsibility to look at the road, check mirrors, click on your turning signal, and follow traffic signals. Don’t let outside factors affect you while driving:

• Looking at your phone to read texts or check notifications.
• Focusing on external distractions like billboards or other accidents.
• Adjusting your GPS or car controls while driving.
• Turning on a podcast or music playlist.

Manual Distractions

These involve taking your hands off the steering wheel, increasing the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle. You may think you’re way too advanced to keep both hands on the steering wheel while driving, but if it prevents an accident, then it’s the safest way to drive. Avoid the following:

• Eating or drinking while driving.
• Adjusting the radio or climate controls.
• Reaching for items in the car, like a phone or bag.
• Turning around to discipline kids or talk to friends.

Cognitive Distractions

A cognitive distraction occurs when your mind is not focused on driving. You may still have your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, but mentally, you’re elsewhere. Driving can become such a habit that you go on autopilot. But you won’t know what to do when something unexpected happens if your mind isn’t focused on driving. Some examples include:

• Daydreaming or getting lost in thought.
• Having an intense conversation with a passenger.
• Stress, worry, or strong emotions that impact concentration.
• Crying babies, fighting siblings, or rowdy friends.

Texting and Phone Use

Texting while driving is a combination of all three distractions—visual, manual, and cognitive. It’s one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving, as it takes your eyes, hands, and focus away from driving.

In Connecticut, texting and driving is illegal and can result in heavy fines and legal consequences. There is never a reason to text and drive. Anyone can wait for you to pull over and respond when the vehicle is not in motion.

What Are the Consequences of Distracted Driving in Fairfield, CT?

In Fairfield, CT, distracted driving is not only dangerous but also illegal. Connecticut has strict laws that prohibit the use of handheld devices while driving. If caught, drivers can face:

• Fines and penalties.
• Demerits on their driver’s license.
• Higher insurance rates.
• Potential civil lawsuits if their distracted driving results in an accident.

When you are on the road, you are operating a large vehicle. You have a responsibility to pay attention to the road and follow driving laws. Taking this role seriously will help you avoid accidents and injury in the future.

How Can You Avoid Distracted Driving?

Learning to be a better driver will only keep you and your family safe as you get out on the road each day. Here are some tips on how you can improve your driving habits and avoid car accidents in Fairfield:

• Turn off your phone or use a hands-free device if you need to make calls. Teach yourself to wait to reply in all situations of your life so that an unread text message isn’t a big deal.
• Plan ahead by setting your GPS or adjusting your car controls before you hit the road. Choose your music before you put the car in drive.
• Stay focused on driving and avoid multitasking behind the wheel. This includes snacking before driving or having a passenger do things for you.
• Take breaks if you feel tired or mentally distracted to refocus on driving. Ask someone else to drive. Take a quick nap in a parking lot. Or go on a brisk walk to get your heart pumping and feel refreshed during a long trip.

Call a Fairfield Lawyer to Navigate a Distracted Driving Case

If you were in an accident due to distracted driving by the other driver, you have a personal injury case on your hands. Work with a lawyer to investigate the case, collect evidence, and prove liability. Then, you can file a personal injury claim and seek compensation to help pay for damages, including pain and suffering.

Brill Law Group is here to help. We understand the serious consequences of distracted driving and are dedicated to providing legal support to help your case. You will never have to pay fees until we win the case and you’ve received your payout. Contact us today for a free consultation.