Our Ponca City motor vehicle accident attorneys want you to be aware of distracted driving behaviors that increase your risk of crashes and collisions.
Many of us lead busy lives and have hectic schedules. Having to juggle your time and multitask at home, work, or in your personal life is common. Unfortunately, this can easily leave you feeling distracted, drained, and generally out of focus. It can also make you more susceptible to accidental injuries and is particularly dangerous when behind the wheel.
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car crashes and collision in Oklahoma and across the country. To protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the road, our Ponca City, OK motor vehicle accident attorneys highlight some of the most common types of distracted driving behaviors to avoid.
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SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYCommon Types of Driving Distractions
Driving is a complex skill that requires your undivided attention. When you are distracted by other matters or activities in or outside your vehicle, the chance of being involved in a motor vehicle accident increases dramatically. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), distracted driving accidents claim the lives of nine people each day while leaving over a thousand other drivers and passengers suffering serious injuries.
Distracted driving can cause you to make dangerous driving errors, such as speeding, weaving in and out of your lane, running red lights, or disregarding other traffic signals. It also decreases your reaction times, making it harder to respond properly to unexpected road, weather, and traffic conditions. The CDC states that there are three main types of driving distractions to avoid:
- Visual distractions: Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds increases your car accident risks.
- Manual distractions: Taking even one hand off the wheel can impact driving abilities and reaction times.
- Cognitive distractions: Focusing on other matters other than the task of driving makes it more likely for dangerous errors to occur.
Texting is one of the most common types of driving distractions. It is also among the most dangerous, as it involves your visual, manual, and cognitive processes.
Dangerous Distracted Driving Behaviors
There has been increased public awareness regarding the dangerous effects of using cellphones and texting while behind the wheel. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that there are other types of distracted driving behaviors which are just as common and potentially dangerous. These include:
- Changing GPS or car stereo settings;
- Drinking coffee or eating fast food;
- Making alterations to your appearance, such as combing hair or putting on makeup;
- Reaching for items in the glove department or backseat;
- Talking to other passengers;
- Paying too much attention to things happening outside of the vehicle.
Our Ponca City Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys are Here to Help
While limiting your own driving distractions can help reduce the risks, crashes and collisions can still occur. At BDIW Law, we help you hold at fault drivers accountable in these situations. To schedule a consultation, call or contact our Ponca City, OK motor vehicle accident attorneys online today.
