There are many ways a car accident can happen. A driver may be drunk, aggressive or negligent. One common way car accidents happen is by distracted driving. Distracted driving happens when a driver focuses on something other than the road. There are three kinds of distracted driving:
- Visual: anything that would cause a driver to look away from the road
- Cognitive: anything that would cause a driver to think about something other than driving
- Manual: anything that might cause a driver to take their hands off the wheel
Drivers can practice safe driving by reducing distractions. Here’s how:
Put away the phone
Phones are practically made to be distracting so that users know when they are receiving a text or call. However, these notifications can cause users to look at their phones while driving. Drivers may want to consider putting their phones away while driving. This can be done by turning the phone off or hiding it in a bag or glovebox.
Eat before getting on the road
The main benefit of fast food is that most people don’t have to leave the comfort of their vehicle to get a hot meal. However, many people would eat their meals while driving. As a result, they would have to take their hands off the wheel to eat. Drivers can practice safe driving by waiting until they are fully parked before eating or drinking a meal.
Changing the GPS safely
Most drivers rely on GPS to get just about anywhere. If the destination is wrong, many drivers would change it while in motion. However, this can require a lot of focus and often the use of a hand. Like eating, drivers may want to consider driving someplace where they can park before they change their GPS.
Just because you are practicing safe driving doesn’t mean others are. You may be in an accident because another driver was distracted. You may need to learn about your legal rights to get compensation for your medical bills and damages.