Other Driving Distractions You Should Know About
Corbin Sutter
Traffic Accidents
Driving comes with many responsibilities. You have to make sure you are not a danger to other motorists and pedestrians while on the road. One of the things you need to be wary of is distracted driving.What It Is
Generally, distracted driving refers to engaging in other activities that take away your attention from driving. There are three main types of distractions.
• Visual – those that take your eyes off the road
• Manual – activities that result in you taking your hands off the wheel
• Cognitive – things that take your mind off driving
Other Driving Distractions
You may have heard of texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, or even fiddling with the radio. While these are the most common, there are other things you should avoid when you are behind the wheel.
• Changing Clothes or Applying Makeup
Some people think that the best way to save time is to change clothes and shoes or apply makeup while on the road. This may be true if you are a passenger. However, this is a big no for drivers. These are risky as they take away your attention off the road.
• Disorderly Passengers
Having loud or disorderly passengers can distract you from driving. They can take your attention. For instance, you can be cognitively distracted by all the noise. If two or more passengers are having a heated discussion, you may even end up looking their way without intending to.
• Pets
Driving with a pet comes with many risks. Your pet may not remain still in its seat and approach you. Some may bark at other vehicles. Some drivers get distracted by trying to pet or hold their pets. If you have to take your pet with you, make sure they are well-behaved. Put them in their cage during the drive, if necessary.
• Loud Music
Some drivers love to listen to their favorite tunes while driving. You can even sing along to the lyrics. However, you have to make sure it does not draw your focus out of the road. Do not focus too much on singing. Additionally, control the volume. Music that is too loud can prevent you from hearing other sounds like car horns, emergency vehicles, and screeching tires.
• Scenery
Going on a road trip allows you to see amazing nature spots. However, focusing on the beautiful scenery while driving is quite dangerous. You may end up swerving into another lane or miss the car in front of you as you take in the wonder and magnificence of your surroundings. Do not try to take pictures while you are behind the wheel. If you cannot stop yourself from admiring the scenery, pull over and stop for a while. Once you have to go on the road again, focus your full attention on driving.
• Rubbernecking
This happens when the driver turns their head to stare at something. Thus, removing your focus on what is in front of you.
• Mental Distractions
You may already be aware of the dangers of driving while you are feeling too emotional. Extreme anger and sadness can impair your judgment. However, it is also dangerous to drive while your mind is elsewhere. If you have an ongoing inner monologue, are stressing out on the things you need to accomplish, or are replaying a conversation you recently had, it may be best to not drive. You will be constantly distracted by your thoughts, which affects your focus.
Get Legal Help
If a distracted driver caused an accident that left you suffering from injuries, reach out to an auto accident lawyer as soon as possible. All Injuries Law Firm offers services in Englewood, Fort Myers, North Port, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Venice. Contact us now to find out how we can help.