Cellphones are clearly the biggest cause of distracted driving in the United States. This can sometimes be shown by looking at texting records after a car accident. People cause accidents while talking, texting, using other apps, taking pictures or browsing social media.
It’s important to remember that the phone is not the only thing that can distract you in the car. You always want to be alert and have your focus on the road. Let’s consider a few more common distractions so that you’ll know what to avoid.
Common distractions
The following is certainly not an exhaustive list of examples of distracted driving, but it can give you a sense of how many distractions there are. You’ll also see just how easy it is for drivers to get distracted when they mistakenly believe what they’re doing is safe. Some major sources of distraction include:
- Eating
- Drinking a cup of coffee
- Changing the radio station
- Picking a new playlist or song on a phone or in-dash entertainment center
- Adjusting the mirrors or seat
- Talking to passengers
- Becoming lost in thought
- Interacting with pets
- Looking at a map
- Programming a GPS
- Gawking or rubbernecking at an accident
It’s very easy to get distracted, but drivers can avoid it. Unfortunately, even if you do so, another driver could get distracted and injure you in an accident. Make sure you know how to seek financial compensation if this happens, especially if you have suffered catastrophic injuries that are going to change the course of your life. Having experienced legal guidance can help you get the compensation you’re due.