People are largely aware that texting or otherwise using a mobile device while driving is unsafe. However, handling devices on the road remains a relatively common practice. Drivers often overestimate their own skill. They become overconfident because they assume that they have the capability of safely multitasking while operating a motor vehicle.
Contrary to that assumption, most people struggle to split their focus between a digital device and the operation of a motor vehicle. They can cause preventable crashes that generate tens of thousands of dollars in property damage and injury-related expenses.
When drivers understand the science behind the dangers of distraction, they may find it easier to leave their phones alone while on the road. Why are digital devices particularly dangerous for people operating motor vehicles?
Phones cause three types of distraction
Safety professionals often break driving distraction into three distinct categories. Unfortunately, interacting with a mobile device typically causes all three of these types of distraction.
The first is visual distraction. Drivers need to constantly monitor their surroundings for safety issues. People focused on their phones may overlook a child stepping into the street and other safety hazards. Surveillance issues are a top contributing factor in many severe collisions.
Handling a phone also causes manual distraction. Drivers have to take at least one hand off the wheel to interact with their devices. The need to grab the steering wheel when traffic circumstances change can increase reaction time and reduce the likelihood of drivers effectively responding.
Finally, mobile phones cause mental distraction. Even when people don’t handle their phones, they may react internally whenever they hear their phones ping or start vibrating. When a person mentally focuses on something other than traffic, they can overlook safety concerns and may experience an increased reaction time.
The unfortunate reality is that distracted drivers injure tens of thousands of people and kill thousands every year. Those dealing with the aftermath of a crash caused by digital distraction may have grounds to hold the driver at fault accountable. Seeking compensation from distracted drivers who cause motor vehicle collisions can help people repair their vehicles, pay their hospital bills and offset their lost wages.