It can be difficult to avoid distractions when you get behind the steering wheel of a car. One of the biggest distractions you may deal with is the temptation to use your phone to talk or text while you drive.
Although cell phone use and driving is a type of distraction that causes many car accidents, other types of driver distractions exist.
Visual distractions
In 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 424,000 people sustained injuries in car accidents involving a distracted driver, and visual distraction played a role in many of these accidents. Visual distractions occur when you take your eyes off the road. These distractions can include looking at a text message, adjusting the GPS or gazing at a roadside attraction.
Manual distractions
Manual distractions involve taking your hands off the steering wheel. Activities like eating, grooming or adjusting the radio fall under this category. When your hands are not firmly on the wheel, your ability to respond to sudden road hazards becomes impaired.
Cognitive distractions
Cognitive distractions can affect your mental focus. Daydreaming, thinking about personal problems or engaging in intense conversations can divert attention from the task of driving. Such distractions can result in delayed reaction times and poor decision-making.
Auditory distractions
Auditory distractions, like listening to loud music, podcasts or phone conversations through a handheld device, can disrupt your concentration. The noise can make it challenging to hear important auditory cues, such as sirens or horns.
Even if you believe you are a safe driver, any type of distraction makes an injurious or fatal collision more likely. If you get injured in a car accident, these injuries may make it harder for you to return to work, school and your other daily activities.