DISTRACTED DRIVING IS A MULTI-LAYERED PROBLEM

Recent awareness campaigns in California and many states have raised the profile of “distracted driving.” Most drivers, if asked, can explain that distracted driving often involves cell phones or texting and that it’s important to pay attention to the road when you drive.

However, many drivers don’t identify other common types of distractions as a problem – even when they are just as dangerous as texting.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), driving distractions can cause up to four different kinds of distraction:

• Visual: Looking at something other than the road and the potential obstacles or hazards ahead, like other cars, pedestrians, or construction.
• Auditory: Listening to something other than the sounds related to driving, like music or a conversation.
• Manual: Using one’s hands for something other than operating the vehicle, like personal grooming or eating.
• Cognitive: Thinking about something other than how to drive safely at that moment, like an argument you’ve had or how sleepy you are.

Most distractions involve more than one of these types. For instance, sending a text message may occupy your brain, ears, and hands at the same time. Eating or drinking behind the wheel may do the same. Boisterous passengers will usually occupy a driver’s ears and brain and may also occupy the eyes and hands as well.

Distracted driving comes in many forms, but all of them increase the risk of a serious crash. If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, don’t wait: contact the hardworking San Jose distracted driving accident attorneys at Caputo and Van Der Walde – Injury & Accident Attorneys today. Our number is (800) 900-0863, and your initial consultation is free.