Distracted driving has become a significant problem on Ohio roads. Throughout the United States, accident statistics revealed that distracted drivers cause numerous fatal accidents. Although someone might be very careful behind the wheel, there is nothing they can do to change the habits of another motorist. That said, remaining alert to the signs of distracted drivers could help avoid them and potential accidents.
Distracted driving
Drivers could be distracted in numerous ways, but three primary categories exist. Cognitive distractions refer to concentration issues, while manual and visual distractions refer to using the hands and eyes for things other than operating a vehicle. Some drivers may suffer from all three distractions simultaneously, increasing the dangers.
One obvious sign of a distracted driver involves the direction the driver looks. Someone staring down at their lap could be texting or reading messages on a smartphone. Rubbernecking drivers and those engaged in conversation with passengers may also look away from the road ahead.
If a driver has something in their hand, that hand is not on the wheel. Additionally, their concentration might be on the object. A driver might not think it’s a big deal to comb their hair or drink coffee while commuting, but the dangers could be enormous.
Moving violations
Distracted driving might also cause a driver to commit moving violations, such as drifting into another lane and hitting a motorcycle in a blind spot or crossing a double line and causing a head-on collision. Distracted drivers might also ignore their speed. Driving too fast or too slow brings risks of car accidents.
Vehicles that break at the last minute might indicate the driver is not paying attention. If the driver does not brake in time, accidents could happen. Distracted drivers who cause accidents for any reason may face civil litigation if they inflict harm or property damage.
