Distracted driving is a leading cause of Alabama car accidents. According to Drive Safe Alabama, there were 65 deaths related to distracted driving in a recent year, and a texting driver is 23 times more likely to get into a wreck compared to a non-texting driver.
Drivers should familiarize themselves with the causes of distracted driving to better equip themselves to drive responsibly and remain focused on the road at all times.
Causes of Distracted Driving in Alabama
Distracted driving stems from various everyday habits and behaviors that take a driver’s attention away from the road. Being familiar with the following common causes of distraction can help you recognize and avoid risky actions before they lead to serious accidents:
- Using a cellphone, including for texting, emailing, using social media, or taking photos
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting in-car controls or GPS systems
- Talking to passengers
- Reaching for objects inside the vehicle
- Personal grooming
- Daydreaming and other mental distractions
- Looking at roadside events
- Handling pets in the car
Types of Distracted Driving
There are three main types of distracted driving, each of which causes distracted drivers to lose focus in a different way:
- Visual distractions happen when drivers take their eyes off the road. Checking a text message, looking at a GPS screen, making eye contact with a passenger, or glancing at scenery can prevent drivers from noticing and reacting to hazards ahead.
- Cognitive distractions occur when the mind’s focus drifts away from the activity of driving. Thinking about work, personal matters, or conversations can cause delayed reactions and poor decision-making behind the wheel.
- Manual distractions involve drivers taking their hands off the wheel. Eating, reaching, or adjusting controls reduces drivers’ ability to regain control of their vehicle.
How Can We Stop Distracted Driving?
We can reduce distracted driving through a combination of personal responsibility, public education, and stricter enforcement. Drivers can limit distractions while driving by putting their phones away, setting GPS routes before driving, and avoiding multitasking.
Law enforcement and awareness campaigns also play a role by highlighting the dangers of distracted driving and promoting safer habits. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has spearheaded several nationwide efforts to reduce and prevent crashes involving distracted drivers.
Finally, parents can set examples for young drivers by practicing focused driving. Since teen drivers are less experienced behind the wheel, it’s extra important for them to focus on the road. Together, we can work to build a culture where staying alert while driving becomes second nature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Distracted Driving
Drivers have many questions about distracted driving. Here are brief answers to a few of them, but don’t hesitate to reach out to a car accident attorney to learn more.
What are the main types of distracted driving?
The main types of distracted driving are visual, cognitive, and manual distractions. Visual distractions divert your eyes, cognitive distractions occupy your mind, and manual distractions remove your hands from the wheel.
Is daydreaming a distraction while driving?
Yes. Daydreaming is a cognitive distraction because it causes your attention to drift away from driving. Even if your eyes remain on the road, your mind’s absence can reduce your awareness and delay your reaction time.
How does cell phone use lead to crashes?
Cell phone use combines all three types of distraction. Reading, typing, handling, or talking on a phone diverts your vision, focus, and physical control, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Get Help from Our Alabama Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers
If you got hurt in a car accident because another driver was distracted, you may be entitled to compensation for your resulting losses. Collins Law, LLC, is proud to help Alabama accident victims seek justice after devastating accidents and injuries. Contact us right away to get started with a free, no-obligation consultation.
