Sending a quick text message while driving may seem harmless but glancing away from the road for even a few seconds can have deadly consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 3,100 people were killed in distracted driving motor vehicle accidents in 2019, and thousands more were injured.
What activities constitute distracted driving?
While distracted driving laws often focus on cell phone use behind the wheel, it is only one form of distracted driving. Any activity that takes your focus off driving can be considered distracted driving. Some examples of distracted driving include engaging in any of the following activities while driving:
- Eating
- Talking to passengers
- Drinking
- Applying makeup
- Reading
- Adjusting the radio, GPS, or air conditioning
- Using a cell phone (e.g., surfing the Internet, checking e-mails, texting)
What are the three types of distractions?
Generally, the above activities will fall under one or more of the main types of distraction. The three main types of distractions that can impact drivers are manual, visual, and cognitive.
- Manual: Distractions that require removing one or both hands from the steering wheel.
- Visual: Distractions that take your eyes off the road.
- Cognitive: Distractions that take your mind off driving.
What should you do if you were injured in a distracted driving accident?
If a distracted driver caused an accident involving your vehicle, you have the legal right to file a lawsuit against the driver responsible for your injuries and damages. Ohio drivers can recover damages to pay for their accident-related medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. An attorney in your area can review the facts of the accident and help build your case.