What Is Considered Distracted Driving?

Most drivers feel confident behind the wheel, but if someone stops paying attention for even a moment, it can have devastating consequences. A distraction while driving is any activity that diverts a person’s focus from the road. Understanding what these distractions are and how they affect someone’s ability to drive safely is the first step toward preventing a serious accident.

Jacobs & Dow, LLC, breaks down the different types of driving distractions, highlights the risks involved, and explains what you can do if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver.

The Three Main Types of Driving Distractions

A distraction while driving falls into one of three categories. Some activities, such as texting, can involve all three, making them especially dangerous.

1. Visual Distractions

Visual distractions are anything that takes someone’s eyes off the road. When someone is not looking at what’s in front of them, they can’t react to sudden changes, like a car braking or a pedestrian stepping into the street. Common examples include:

• Reading a text message or email
• Looking at a GPS or navigation system
• Watching a video on their phone
• Applying makeup or grooming
• Looking at passengers or scenery

2. Manual Distractions

Manual distractions involve taking one or both hands off the steering wheel. Without full control of their vehicle, a driver can’t steer effectively to avoid accidents. Common examples include:

• Using a handheld cell phone
• Eating, drinking, or smoking
• Reaching for an object in the car
• Adjusting the radio, climate controls, or other in-vehicle technology

3. Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions occur when someone’s mind wanders from the task of driving. Even if their eyes are on the road and their hands are on the wheel, a lack of mental focus can slow their reaction time significantly. Common examples include:

• Daydreaming or being “lost in thought”
• Engaging in a stressful or emotional conversation
• Thinking about work or personal problems
• Feeling drowsy or fatigued

The Sobering Impact of Distracted Driving

The statistics surrounding distracted driving paint a grim picture. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), sending or reading a single text message while driving at 55 mph is like driving the entire length of a football field with your eyes closed. In that short time, anything can happen.

Distractions don’t just increase the risk of a crash — they make accidents more severe. Drivers who are not paying attention are less likely to brake or swerve, leading to higher-impact collisions and more catastrophic injuries. These accidents can result in life-altering consequences, from permanent disability to wrongful death.

Injured by a Distracted Driver? We Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have legal rights. Proving that another driver was distracted can be complex, but an experienced personal injury attorney can gather the necessary evidence, such as cell phone records and witness statements, to build a strong case.

At Jacobs & Dow, LLC, our attorneys are dedicated trial lawyers with extensive experience in personal injury and wrongful death cases. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take, and we are committed to helping our clients secure the compensation they deserve.

To schedule an appointment and discuss your case and the legal options available to you, contact us today.