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Distracted driving is extremely dangerous and claims nearly 3,000 lives in the United States every year. When people think about distracted driving, many picture texting and driving. There are, however, several different forms of distracted driving that can divert a driver’s attention from the road. And, the attention that gets diverted is not just visual.
How Distracted Driving Diverts Attention
Humans have three main forms of attention: visual, manual, and cognitive. Driving requires the full attention of all three forms in order to operate a vehicle safely. Drivers must look at the road and their surroundings, keep their hands on the wheel, and have their minds focused on the task of driving.
Many forms of distracted driving, such as using a smartphone, fiddling with radio controls, eating or drinking, performing personal grooming, or talking to passengers, can divert one or all three forms of attention from driving. Texting while driving is particularly dangerous as it can divert all three forms of attention from the road at the same time. This happens in the following ways:
- Visual: A driver’s eyes are taken off the road and focused on their phone.
- Manual: One or both of a driver’s hands are taken off the wheel to type a text.
- Cognitive: A driver’s mind is focused on composing a message rather than driving.
The consequences of a distracted driving accident can be devastating. If you or someone you love has been harmed by a distracted driver, our Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys are here to help. We have the experience and resources needed to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait one more day to seek justice.
Call Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. at (844) 383-0565 to schedule a free consultation.