Distracted driving is a dangerous practice that puts innocent lives at risk. It happens when a driver allows a distraction to take their attention off the task of driving. Maryland and other jurisdictions have penalized distracted driving in order to deter drivers from letting it occur.
When thinking about distracted driving, most individuals may only consider the problems that cell phones cause when drivers choose to use them while behind the wheels of their vehicles. However, there are many other types of distractions that can be as dangerous as smart phones and similar technology. This post will provide an overview of what may constitute a distraction while driving and what victims can do when they are hurt by distracted drivers.
Types of driving distractions
Driving distractions come in many different forms. According to data put forth by the state of Maryland government, driving distractions can fall into 4 categories:
- Visual: Distractions that impact a driver’s ability to see while driving
- Auditory: Distractions that impact a driver’s ability to hear while driving
- Manual: Distractions that use a driver’s hands or body while driving
- Cognitive: Distractions that impact a driver’s mind of thinking while driving
From this list, readers may begin to understand that distracted driving can involve almost anything. Listening to music, eating a sandwich, talking to a passenger, reaching for a dropped item, or checking a text message all may be distractions that put drivers and other motorists at risk of accidents and injuries.
What to do after a distracted driving accident
The consequences of a motor vehicle accident can be serious for victims. It can be difficult to imagine getting back to one’s regular life after suffering a serious setback. However, victims of distracted driving motor vehicle accidents may have options for seeking the recovery of their losses. They can choose to speak with personal injury attorneys about their claims to better understand what rights they have to sue for their damages. This post should not be read as legal advice and does not recommend any legal courses of action for personal injury accident victims.
