3 Forms Of Distracted Driving That Can Lead To A Car Accident

Car accidents occur every day around Connecticut. Most of the time, they merely result in lane closures, but in several instances, they lead to injuries or death.

There are many ways to end up in a car crash. While it can happen to anyone, you greatly increase your odds of being a victim if you partake in any distractions while behind the wheel. There are several different kinds of distractions that can lead to a crash, and you need to avoid all of them while driving.

1. Manual distraction

A manual distraction is one in which drivers take one or both of their hands off the steering wheel. This can involve eating food, which a lot of people in Connecticut do when they are in a hurry. It also includes applying makeup or using a cellphone to text. When even one hand is off the wheel, it greatly reduces the amount of time it takes for you to come to a stop, and it also means your mind is elsewhere when it should be on the road.

2. Cognitive Distraction

This leads to the next type of distraction: cognitive. A cognitive distraction is one in which your mind focuses on other matters than driving. This is why hands-free phones are a problem. Both of your hands are on the wheel, but your mind focuses on the conversation. A lot of people may daydream while on a commute because they have become so used to this route. Your mind needs to be on the road because a change could occur at any moment.

3. Visual Distraction

Your hands need to be on the steering wheel, and your eyes need to be straight ahead. A billboard may take your eyes off the car in front of you. Your phone will make you look downward to read a text. Your hands, mind and eyes need to have 100% dedication to driving or else you could end up crashing into the car in front of you.