Distracted Driving Defined By Shane Smith Law
According to the National Safety Council, there has been more than 308,000 auto accidents due to distracted drivers texting and/or using their cellphone. During the day in 2010, less than 10 percent (9%) used a hands-free device to use their cellphone while driving. Comparing 2009 to 2010, drivers texting or otherwise using their cellphone manually rose from 0.6 to 0.9 percent. 5 percent of motor vehicle operators using their handheld cellphones remained constant year over year.
These statistics are quite frightening, but how does one really define distract driving? Therefore, the following will answer some frequently asked questions that you and others undoubtedly have regarding the topic of distracted driving.
What exactly is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is when a driver is distracted from focusing on their main task of safely driving. It can occur in up to three different ways: cognitive, visual, and manual.
Cognitive or thought-based distractions are quite common. Anything that takes the driver’s ability to mentally hone in on driving away is considered a distraction. This can be considered talking to someone on a cellphone or in person, changing the radio station, or texting. There are many other types, but the list is far too long to list.
Sight-based distractions remove the driver’s ability to see what is on the road. Therefore, having an inability to see obviously distracts drivers from focusing on driving. When a driver cannot see what is on the road, other drivers, pedestrians bicyclists and even pets are at risk of being injured or killed. Many types of distractions fall into this category including dialing and talking or texting on a cellphone, reading a map while driving, reading a newspaper, putting on make-up and similar actions.
The last form of distracted driving is manual distraction. This happens when one or both of a driver’s hands are occupied with something else besides gripping the wheel. Similar to sight based, many of the same types of activities can make a driver manually distracted. Some activities include changing the radio station, drinking a coffee or eating something, or even putting something away or looking for something while driving.
Since drivers can be distracted quite easily, the chance of becoming a victim is quite easy. If you have become injured or have had a family member become injured due to a careless and distracted driver, you may have a case. Speaking with a Georgia accident attorney from Shane Smith Law will help you understand your rights and if you have a personal injury claim. Call Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656 today!