Any time a Kentucky driver is focusing on something other than the road and driving safely, he or she is at an increased risk of an accident. Distracted driving can come in many different forms, but they are all dangerous. In fact, many things that can take a driver’s attention have nothing to do with a phone, even though smart phones have definitely led to an increase in distracted driving accidents.
If you suffered injuries in a motor vehicle accident, it is possible you are the victim of a distracted driver. While it may seem unlikely, it is possible to hold a negligent driver accountable for his or her actions. As you consider your legal options, it may be helpful to first consider the types of distraction that can cause accidents and whether they may have played a role in what happened to you.
Stealing a driver’s focus
Distracted driving includes anything that takes a driver’s attention off driving safely. This safety concern has become significantly more prevalent with the increase of cellphone use and drivers’ access to smartphones. In many cases, technology is to blame for many types of distraction. The three main categories of distracted driving include the following:
- Visual – This category includes anything that causes a driver to take his or her eyes off the road. It may happen when reading a text, looking at a billboard while driving by or glancing in the backseat at a passenger.
- Manual – This category includes anything that causes a driver to remove his or her hand off the steering wheel. It may include picking up a phone, adjusting the radio, eating a burger and more.
- Cognitive – This category includes anything that causes a driver to lose mental focus. Talking or even daydreaming can be distracting, even when eyes are on the road and hands are on the wheel.
Phones are especially dangerous because they can cause a driver to experience distraction in multiple ways at once. Drivers are responsible for the choices they make while behind the wheel, even if taking their eyes off the road for only a few seconds.
How you can move forward
It’s not easy to pick up the pieces and move forward after a serious car accident. You do not have to walk through the aftermath alone. It will be helpful for you to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand what legal options may be available to you and how you can pursue rightful compensation and damages.