If you’re like most people in Kentucky, you probably spend a lot of time behind the wheel of a car. Though it’s easy to take driving for granted, over three million people are injured in the United States every year in auto accidents. There would be far fewer accidents if people followed a few simple tips to avoid distracted driving.
There are three basic types of distracted driving: Cognitive, manual, and visual. Cognitive distraction happens when you are thinking about something else and not paying attention to your surroundings. Manual distractions involve incidents such as eating in the car or trying to reach something in the back seat. Visual distractions occur when something catches your eye and takes your attention from the road. Texting while driving is the most obvious form of all three, which is why it is one of the most dangerous things a driver can do.
In addition to putting away your phone before you start driving, you should make any necessary adjustments to your seats or mirrors before you leave the driveway or parking lot. Trying to fix your mirrors while driving down the interstate is a recipe for disaster. If you really need to eat or make a work call while driving, find a safe place and pull over. It’s not worth the risk of doing it while your car is in motion. You need to be focused on driving so that you can avoid all of the other distracted drivers out there.
If you find yourself in an auto accident because another driver was distracted and not paying attention, you might be able to file a claim against the other driver’s insurance. A lawyer experienced in handling personal injury matters may be able to help with a settlement, which might cover things such as lost income, medical bills, and reimbursement for pain and suffering.