Common types of driver distractions

Driving requires high levels of concentration, even for more seasoned road users. Traveling on the road means making split second decisions on a regular basis. Thus, there isn’t really any room for distractions.

 

Unfortunately, distractions do cause multiple fatal accidents every single day in the U.S. These are some of the most common types of driver distractions that result in harm.

Cell phones

Cell phones and other electronic devices account for many distracted driving accidents. It takes several seconds to view, comprehend and send a text message, for example. This may not sound like a long time, but when traveling at speed, it means covering a long distance without paying full attention to the road. Texting while driving is illegal in Maryland and this is largely due to the number of accidents that it causes.

Being lost in thought

Not all distractions are physical. A driver’s mindset can play a key role in road safety. For instance, a driver who is not stressed and who is solely focused on arriving at their destination is less likely to cause an accident. However, if a driver is highly stressed and frustrated behind the wheel, they are more likely to become distracted and potentially cause an accident.

Passengers

Traveling alone can become tedious, especially on long journeys. Having company in the car is not necessarily a bad thing, as long as occupants do not become a distraction. For example, engaging in a politically charged debate with a passenger is not a good idea while behind the wheel.

You can only control your own behavior and not that of other road users. If a distracted driver has caused you injuries, you may be able to hold them to account. Seek further guidance to find out more about the options available to you.