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The types of distraction that could place you at risk

On Behalf of | May 28, 2021 | Car Accident Injuries |

Every time you share the road with other Wisconsin drivers, you are vulnerable to the negligent or reckless actions of others. This means if someone chooses to drive while distracted, it places you and everyone else on the road at an elevated risk of an accident. There are different types of distracted driving, and each one affects a driver in different ways. Even if a specific action does not seem dangerous, it could have devastating consequences. 

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. Virtually every driver has a phone, and many vehicles now come with infotainment systems that can be very distracting as well. This is in addition to other things that can be distracting, such as talking to passengers, adjusting the radio or inputting information into a GPS system. If you suffered injuries in an accident caused by a distracted driver, there are steps you can take to hold that individual accountable. 

Types of distraction 

Distraction can happen even if the driver’s hands are on the wheel and eyes on the road. An unfocused mind can be just as dangerous as sending a text or eating while driving. The main types of distraction include: 

  • Manual distraction happens when a driver removes one or both hands from the wheel for any reason, such as holding a phone, drinking or adjusting a radio. 
  • Visual distraction happens when a driver takes his or her eyes off the road, such as when reading a text, looking at a passenger or looking at a billboard. 
  • Cognitive distraction happens when a driver is not focusing on the task at hand. This can happen when on the phone, listening to music or even daydreaming. 

Any type of distraction leads to an elevated risk of an accident. A driver is responsible for any choice he or she makes while behind the wheel, especially if it causes another person harm. 

Your rights as an injured party 

If you suffered because of the actions of another party, you could have legal options available to you. Through a civil claim filed against the liable party, you may be able to recoup your losses and move forward after a distraction-related accident. These types of claims are timesensitive, and it is prudent to move forward with this potential course of action as soon as possible after a crash.