Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of car accidents in Batavia, Illinois. Even a momentary lapse in attention can cause a devastating collision. The sections below explain the types of distracted driving and which behaviors are most dangerous.
Overview of Distracted Driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines distracted driving as any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from operating a vehicle safely. Many people picture texting behind the wheel, but distracted driving involves a wide range of behaviors.
The Three Types of Distractions
Every distraction falls into one or more of the following categories. Some behaviors involve all three, making them especially dangerous.
- Visual distractions are anything that takes your eyes off the road. Examples include reading a text, looking at a GPS screen, or turning to check on children in the backseat.
- Manual distractions are activities that take one or both hands off the wheel. Eating, adjusting the radio, and reaching for items inside the vehicle fall into this category.
- Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind is not fully focused on driving. Daydreaming, stress, conversations, and multitasking are common sources of cognitive distraction.
Many distracted driving crashes in Batavia involve more than one type of distraction. Texting while driving is widely regarded as the most dangerous example of all three distraction types at once.
Common Forms of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving behaviors range from seemingly harmless behaviors to intentionally risky actions. Below are some of the most common forms.
Texting or Using a Smartphone
Texting/using a phone involves visual, manual, and cognitive distraction. Looking at a text message or social media notification removes a driver’s eyes from the road for several seconds (enough time to travel the length of a football field at highway speeds). Illinois law prohibits texting while driving.
Using a GPS or Navigational Device
This type involves visual and manual distractions. Drivers often glance at a map, scroll through directions, or input new destinations while moving. Even quick glances can cause a driver to miss changing traffic conditions.
Eating or Drinking Behind the Wheel
Involving both manual and cognitive distraction, eating during a drive takes at least one hand off the wheel and divides attention. Spills can also lead to sudden and unpredictable driving errors.
Adjusting Music or In-Car Systems
Reaching for the radio dial or adjusting air conditioning controls can cause a driver to drift into another lane or fail to notice traffic slowing ahead. It involves manual and visual distraction.
Grooming Activities
Applying makeup or checking one’s appearance in the mirror momentarily shifts focus away from the road.
Handling Pets or Children
Turning around to interact with a child or a pet removes a driver’s attention entirely from driving. These distractions are especially dangerous in neighborhoods and busy intersections.
Contact a Batavia Car Accident Lawyer After a Distracted Driving Accident
Distracted driving crashes in Batavia are usually preventable. When a driver is distracted, they put everyone around them at risk. If you were injured because another motorist failed to stay focused, a Batavia car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
Contact Feagans Law Group today to schedule a free consultation to learn more.