People are constantly on the go in today’s world, and it is easy to become distracted while you are driving. Distractions come in many forms, from texting on a cell phone to looking out the window at a beautiful sunset. The problem comes when a distracted driver causes an accident that leaves another person injured or dead.
There are three main types of distracted driving, and awareness can help you to stay away from drivers who seem distracted. If you hope to avoid the tragedy that comes from a car accident, watch for any of the following signs.
Drivers who are manually distracted
Manual distraction refers to anything that takes a driver’s hands off the wheel for even a second. Steer clear of drivers who appear to be eating or drinking, smoking, turning knobs on the radio or temperature controls, or adjusting a child’s seatbelt.
Drivers who are cognitively distracted
Those who are cognitively distracted can be hard to spot simply because they do not have their full focus or thinking on the road. They may be upset about an unpleasant scene at home or at work, having an intense discussion with another passenger, daydreaming or even escalating emotions into road rage. Those who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs when driving are also considered cognitively distracted.
Drivers who are visually distracted
Once the eyes wander to somewhere that is not on the road, then the driver is visually distracted. In your efforts to avoid an accident, watch carefully for drivers who are doing makeup, searching for items in a purse or backpack, changing radio stations, admiring the view or adjusting a GPS.
Awareness can save your life
You cannot prevent another driver from becoming distracted. However you can lessen your risks of being in an accident by paying close attention to the drivers around you and how distracted they seem. Take appropriate precautions in order to protect yourself and your family.