For the seasoned road user, driving can feel like an almost automatic activity. Nonetheless, this is far from the truth. Driving requires individuals to make split-second decisions throughout their journey.
This means that drivers must give their full attention to the roads, other vehicles and all potential hazards. Failure to do this can result in devastating collisions. Distracted driving is responsible for thousands of road traffic collisions each year, with many of them proving to be fatal.
Outlined below are two of the more common driving distractions:
Electronic gadgets
Cell phones are multifunctional nowadays, which means that business activities, personal conversations, the news and much more can be monitored on these devices. However, the time to look at a cell phone is certainly not while driving. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices should all ideally be out of reach and turned to silent mode while operating a vehicle.
This is also worth keeping in mind if you are traveling with passengers, particularly young children. While a device may keep them occupied on the trip, you don’t want noises to distract you.
Driving while stressed
Not all distractions are physical. The majority of people have been stressed at times and it can be difficult to focus on anything other than the source of that stress. “Lost in thought” accidents occur more frequently than you’d imagine. Before setting off, it’s important to make sure that you are in the right frame of mind.
You can only control your own actions and behavior, not that of other people. If a negligent driver has caused you injuries, then you may be able to hold them to account. Seeking legal guidance would be wise in such a situation.