Distracted driving is no new concept. Even before our dependence on cell phones, there were other distractions such as food, other passengers, and GPS systems. While it may seem that “distracted driving” and “texting and driving” may be interchangeable terms, there are actually many other driving impairments that fall under the umbrella of distracted driving.
What Is Distracted Driving?
If you are taking your eyes and your attention away from the road, you are driving distracted. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) there are three types of distracted driving:
Visual - A visual distraction is one that takes the driver’s attention away from the road. This may include cell phone usage, looking at other passengers, and checking your navigation system.
Manual - A manual distraction is one that causes the driver to take their hands away from the wheel. Some common examples include cell phone usage, changing the radio, eating, and applying make-up.
Cognitive - A cognitive distraction is one that takes the driver’s attention away from the road. This may include daydreaming, cell phone usage, and thinking of personal problems.
After seeing these three types of distractions, it may make sense why using a cellphone behind the wheel is so dangerous. Using a cellphone exercises all three forms of distractions, making it one of the most dangerous activities you can do while behind the wheel.
Harmon Parker Is Here to Help
While our team here at Harmon Parker is extremely dedicated to educating the public on the issues that may arise from distracted driving, we are even more passionate about ensuring those injured in these types of accidents have the representation they deserve.
For many years, our team of expert Florida auto accident attorneys has been helping those injured due to the negligence of another party pursue the compensation they are rightfully owed. Your life should never be negatively impacted due to the actions of a distracted driver, and we will fight for you to ensure you are able to return to the “most normal” version of your life possible.
Call us today (813) 452-4144 to schedule a free consultation to discuss how we can help you recover.
