Any type of action that diverts a driver’s focus off the task at hand can take a substantial toll on one’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. However, some drivers might not be fully aware of all the forms distractions can take and how such issues can affect driving capabilities. Evaluating some common types of distracted driving and the possible risks involved may help drivers in Minnesota reduce their risks of being involved in car accidents by taking steps to cultivate healthier driving habits.
Types and risks
Manual distractions may involve types of actions that force drivers to take one or both hands off the wheel while driving, such as reaching for an item in the passenger seat or adjusting the radio station. Visual distractions are actions that cause drivers to take their eyes off the road and this may include anything from glancing at a phone to read or write a text to looking down to punch an address into a GPS. Some actions may also act to divert one’s attention off the task at hand and carrying on a phone conversation is just one example of a cognitive distraction.
Actions that cause a divide of focus can make it difficult for drivers to maintain awareness of their surroundings and lead to reduced response times. Drivers who take their eyes off the road or hands off the wheel may struggle to spot and react to situations that arise. The presence of inattention may leave drivers more prone to shifting in and out of traffic lanes and make it more difficult to maintain proper speed control, which are just two examples of potentially hazardous driving behaviors.
Dangerous car accidents
Unfortunately, those who wish to mitigate car accident risks by practicing defensive driving may struggle to avoid danger upon encountering the reckless actions of another party. Collisions involving distracted drivers can have disastrous results that could leave a person in Minnesota with serious or life-changing injuries and facing a long road to recovery. When facing similar hardships in life, a person might choose to consult with an attorney for guidance in evaluating his or her situation and in preparing to seek the restitution deserved through a personal injury claim.
