Have you noticed how people often lose focus on the road while driving and start engaging with passengers or on a phone, like they’re chilling in their drawing rooms? Such distractions behind the wheel are one of the prime reasons behind thousands of fatal car accidents in Phoenix. While drivers often try to justify their behavior as ‘We aren’t texting’, every single false move can cause a car wreck. It not only compromises the safety of the vehicle, driver, and passengers, but it also poses a threat to the safety of the pedestrians. And in a city like Phoenix, where traffic and heat can wear on your patience, the smallest slip in attention can lead to serious consequences.
So, it’s time to check out the four categories of distracted driving that every driver must know about:
1. Visual Distractions
A visual distraction is anything that takes your eyes off the road. Even a momentary glance can be enough to miss a changing traffic light or an unexpected stop.
Examples:
- Looking at your GPS
- Checking your phone
- Watching pedestrians
2. Manual Distractions
Manual distractions are about removing one or both hands from the steering wheel. This can be risky if you suddenly face a situation where you have to respond fast.
Common causes:
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Adjusting the stereo or AC, or fan
- Reaching for something in the back seat
3. Cognitive Distractions
Your hands may be on the wheel, and your eyes may be on the road, but if your mind is elsewhere, you’re still distracted. Cognitive distractions affect your judgment and reaction time.
They include:
- Daydreaming
- Driving while upset or angry
- Thinking about work or personal stress
In the eyes of the law, this type of distraction can still hold you accountable if it results in a crash.
4. Auditory Distractions
Noise may get in your way of your concentrating. Although less widely discussed, auditory distractions can decrease your situational awareness.
They can result from:
- Loud music or podcasts
- Noisy passengers
- Phone calls (even hands-free)
Why Should You Be Aware of the Prime Causes of On-Road Distractions?
All forms of distractions increase the risk of accidents. In Arizona, distracted driving laws are followed across the state. Drivers can get tickets for even using a handheld device while driving.
As you now know, how catastrophic distracted driving can be, you can get assistance from a Phoenix car accident lawyer. If you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by distracted driving, it’s best to speak with a licensed legal expert who can walk you through the legal consequences. A Phoenix car accident attorney can help you make sense of your choices under Arizona law.