Driving around Arizona can be quite a scenic experience, with its vast desert landscapes and splendid mountain views. However, it’s important to remember that this beauty should not distract from the necessary focus when behind the wheel.
Distractions are a major problem on American roads; statistics reveal they’re the reason for over 3,000 deaths annually. This guide explores the top distractors according to experts and can help you know what to identify to ensure you arrive alive and whole.
Understanding the Types of Driving Distractions
Distractions fall into three main categories: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distractions take your eyes off the road — think of checking out a billboard or gazing at sunset views through new construction areas. On the other hand, manual distractions usually require you to take a hand (or both) off the wheel. Imagine changing music tracks on your playlist or passing a fizzy drink to a friend in the backseat.
Cognitive distraction is trickier; it’s about what takes your mind off of driving even if your eyes are still on the road and your hands are still on the steering wheel. Deep daydreams about your next vacation or replaying that intense argument from last night would be examples of this.
The highest risk comes when drivers combine these types—like trying to navigate an unfamiliar GPS route while munching on fast food and pulling triple duty on visual, manual, and cognitive fronts simultaneously.
Zeroing In on Specific Distractions
Phone Usage
Smartphones are the main culprits when it comes to distractions. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), smartphone usage while behind the wheel greatly contributes to accidents, but putting a figure on it is pretty elusive.
Phone use while behind the wheel becomes especially risky when the driver is texting while driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the time it takes to read an average text is similar to driving the entire length of a football field blindfolded if you are cruising at 50 miles per hour.
Eating and Drinking Behind the Wheel
Munching and sipping seem harmless but it is not. Fiddling with that burrito or coffee cup pulls your hands off the wheel and your focus from the road. Surprisingly, this type of distraction is responsible for a whopping two percent of all motor vehicle deaths nationwide.
“We see numerous cases where a quick snack behind the wheel turns catastrophic. Drivers must realize that their main task is driving safely—food can wait,” says Arizona personal injury lawyer Jeffrey Phillips.
Rubbernecking
Rubbernecking is slowing down to check out an accident or any unusual roadside activity, and we are all guilty of it at some point.
This seemingly innocent curiosity can cause traffic slowdowns and even additional accidents as drivers divert their attention from the road ahead to whatever drama is unfolding.
Always prioritize what’s in front of you; nothing is happening on that shoulder that is worth a collision or a trip to the ER with personal injuries.
Other Distractions and What to Do if You’re a Victim
From jamming out to loud music, chatty passengers, and even pets in the car—these distractions might seem minor, but each can turn your commute south. If you find yourself the victim of a distracted driving accident, it’s essential not only for your recovery but also to hold accountable those at fault.
This is where having a skilled personal injury lawyer becomes invaluable. They don’t just argue on your behalf; they navigate the convoluted waters of insurance claims and legal filings, ensuring you obtain fair compensation for injuries sustained.
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