Distracted driving is a dangerous behavior. It’s a serious concern in Kentucky, as it contributes a significant percentage to the highway fatalities reported in the state yearly. A driver should be focused on driving to ensure their safety and that of other road users. Anything that takes their attention away from driving is a distraction.
Driving distractions are classified into three categories, which are:
Visual distractions
These are distractions that take a driver’s eyes off the road. Examples include:
- Looking at the phone or any other device
- Adjusting the radio or climate control
- Looking at passengers when interacting
- Eating
- Grooming
- Searching for items
- Looking outside at billboards, attractive buildings or an accident
Visual distractions cause a driver to miss important visual cues, such as brake lights, traffic signals and road signs.
Manual distractions
When a driver takes one or both hands from the steering wheel, they are manually distracted. For example, when eating, grooming, holding a phone to make a call or send a text, reaching for objects, adjusting vehicle controls or handling pets/kids.
Manual distractions reduce control. A driver may be unable to steer properly when responding to hazards. Additionally, they may have an increased reaction time – their ability to respond to an emergency can be delayed.
Cognitive distractions
Anything that takes a driver’s mind away from the task of driving is a cognitive distraction. A driver may have their eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel, but still be distracted. This type of distraction can be caused by engaging in intense conversations, daydreaming, singing along to music, thinking about work and experiencing strong emotions like anger or stress.
Cognitive distractions significantly increase a driver’s reaction time, making it difficult for them to respond safely to sudden events.
Sharing the road with a distracted driver endangers you. If you are injured by such a driver, get more information about your options.