Having a work phone is a perk for many in the U.S., but it can sometimes make you feel like you always have to be available when that phone rings. Unfortunately, this can lead some people to drive while distracted, leading to a motor vehicle accident.
Texting and driving
It can be hard to ignore the ding of a text message. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, texting and driving is one of the most dangerous types of distracted driving as it involves all three types of distractions. When you are reading a text message, your eyes are on your cellphone not the road — a visual distraction. When you are replying to a text message, your hands are on your cellphone not the steering wheel — a manual distraction. Finally, if you are reading a text message and thinking of a reply, your attention is on the message not the task of driving — a cognitive distraction.
Other types of distractions
Texting and driving is not the only way a person can be distracted behind the wheel. If you have a hectic workday, you may try to eat your lunch while driving or groom yourself while driving, both of which can be distracting. Other times you can be distracted by looking up directions to your destination. Even chatting to other passengers in the vehicle can be distracting.
Learn more about your options after a car crash
Distracted driving is the cause of many car accidents every year. In 2018 alone, 2,841 individuals lost their lives in collisions involving a distracted driver. If you are injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may want to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages. Our firm’s webpage on motor vehicle accidents may be a useful resource for those who want to learn more about this topic.