People often think of driver distraction as something that works in one plane only. Yet, the reality is, it can be pretty much a whole body experience, and that is what makes it so dangerous.
Let’s use the example of what most would consider when you first mention driver distraction – the cell phone.
Visual
When you look down at your phone, you can’t look at the road at the same time. Raising the phone into a holder is not much better. While you might not be looking down, you will still be focused on the phone, not the road. Anything that takes your eyes off the road visually distracts you.
Manual
Many drivers sync their phones to their cars. Or they tell Siri to make a phone call to someone or pick up an incoming call. This allows them to keep both hands on the wheel, which is what drivers should ideally be doing when driving, as it gives better control. Drivers who do not have their phones synced will need to take at least one of their hands off the wheel to operate their phones. Those who don’t have it in a holder will also use their hand to hold the phone, inhibiting their ability to steer.
Cognitive
Many people overlook the fact that your phone can still distract you even if you are not touching or looking at it. Talking hands-free is distracting because your brain is thinking about the conversation, not the road. Ditto, having your phone read messages to you. It’s also easy to sit there thinking about why someone has not called, or what they meant when they said that thing, meaning phones can be cognitively distracting even when not using them.
The consequences of a vehicle crash can have a massive financial impact on those affected. Learning how to hold a negligent driver responsible can be crucial to covering the resultant costs.