Distracted driving is a contributing factor to numerous auto accidents each year, leading to too many fatalities and serious injuries. That's why each state has distracted driving laws in place. Drivers who aren't paying adequate attention to the road can face fines and points on their licenses, and they're often held liable for personal injury damages if they cause an accident. To keep yourself safer behind the wheel and help bolster an insurance claim if you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, here's a closer look at the three types of distractions drivers can experience.

What Causes a Driver to Be Distracted?

1. Visual Distractions

Visual distractions are anything that takes your eyes off the road, including looking at your phone, adjusting the radio, or even looking at a billboard. When you take your eyes off the road, you're not able to see what's happening around you, which can lead to an auto accident.

Visual distractions can be particularly dangerous because they take your eyes off the road for an extended period. Even a few seconds of looking away can be enough to cause an accident. It's important to always keep your eyes on the road and avoid any distractions that take your attention away.

2. Manual Distractions

Manual distractions are anything that takes your hands off the wheel, including eating, drinking, or even adjusting the temperature in your car. When your hands are not on the wheel, you're not able to control the car as effectively, which can lead to an auto accident.

Manual distractions can be dangerous because they can cause you to lose control of the car. For example, if you spill your drink and try to clean it up while driving, you may accidentally swerve into another lane or hit another car.

3. Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions are anything that takes your mind off the road, including daydreaming, talking on the phone, or even having an emotional conversation. When your mind is not focused on driving, you're not able to react to situations as quickly, which can lead to an auto accident.

Cognitive distractions can be dangerous because they can cause you to miss important things happening around you. For example, if you're lost in thought and miss a stop sign, you may accidentally run into another car. 

Although you may eliminate distractions while driving, you can't ensure everyone else on the road will do the same. If you were in an auto accident due to the negligence of another motorist, contact the lawyers at The Walker Firm in Warner Robins, GA, for help. With over 50 years of combined experience, the licensed personal injury and car accident attorneys help each of their Houston County clients get compensation to aid their recovery. Learn more about the practice areas online and call (478) 923-4152 for a consultation.