Cognitive distraction and how it plays a role in many car crashes

Car accidents happen for many reasons, but often they are the result of some type of human error. People think they can multi-task or they underestimate the danger or risk associated with certain types of behaviors. As a result, they needlessly endanger themselves and others on the road, sometimes even causing accidents that leave others injured. 

One of the most common behaviors that can lead to car accidents is distracted driving. Since the advent of smartphones and certain types of technology, it is now more common than ever for a driver to have access to various different things that could vie for his or her attention the entire time behind the wheel. Cognitive distraction is anything that causes a driver to lose focus, and it is incredibly dangerous.

An unfocused driver is a dangerous driver

When a driver is not actively focusing on the road while behind the wheel, there is a significantly higher risk of an accident, even if the driver’s eyes are on the road. When a person’s mind is not on the task at hand, he or she is more likely to cause an accident — even with both hands on the wheel and eyes looking straight ahead. 

There are many different things that cause distraction. Although it is often associated with phone use of some kind, distracted driving is a term that encompasses various different types of behaviors. Some of the things that can take a driver’s attention include:

• Texting or talking on the phone
• Looking at social media or using GPS technology
• Eating while driving
• Talking with a passenger
• Daydreaming or failing to pay attention

People often overestimate their ability to drive safely while doing multiple things at once. It may not seem like a big deal to check one text or glance away from the road for one second, but this means a person may be driving hundreds of yards without paying attention. Experts often say that a distracted driver displays some of the same behaviors as a drunk driver.

Did distraction cause you harm?

If you are the victim of an accident caused by a distracted driver, you have rights. The Delaware civil justice system offers victims the opportunity to seek appropriate recompense for their pain and suffering through a personal injury claim. To learn more about this potential legal option, you may want to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney about how to move forward with this.