There are several different categories of distracted driving but regardless of the nature of the distracted driving, all distracted driving is dangerous. Because distracted driving can lead to car accidents, it is helpful to be familiar with the different types of the legal protections available to victims.
The dangers of distracted driving
During 2018, greater than 2,800 victims were killed and an estimated 400,000 victims were injured in car accidents involving a distracted driver. Each day approximately 8 victims are killed in fatal car accidents involving distracted drivers. Distracted driving increases the chances of a car accident.
There are three different categories of distracted driving behaviors including manual distraction, visual distraction and cognitive distraction. Manual distraction includes distracted driving behaviors that remove the driver’s hands from the wheel of the car. Visual distraction includes distracted driving behaviors that remove the driver’s eyes from the roadway. Finally, cognitive distraction includes distracted driving behaviors that remove the driver’s attention and focus from the roadway.
Examples of distracted driving include texting while driving, using a cell phone while driving, eating while driving, grooming while driving, reading while driving, using a navigation device while driving, operating a radio while driving or tending to children while driving. Texting while driving is considered the most dangerous form of distracted driving because it renders the driver manually, visually and cognitively distracted.
Victims of negligent distracted drivers can suffer a range of serious injuries and damages. A personal injury claim for damages may help them address their physical, financial and emotional damages that victims and their families should be familiar with.