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Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous actions on the road. In fact, it’s one of the top three common causes of crashes along with drunk driving and speeding. While most people know the dangers of distractions, they still spend at least some portion of their drive distracted in one way or another.
If you are in an accident because someone else was distracted while driving, you have the right to pursue compensation to cover your losses. Below, we’ll explain the three forms of distracted driving, so you can recognize if someone is negligent in your crash.
Manual Distractions
Manual distractions are those that require a driver to take his or her hand off the steering wheel. Even though many drivers feel they can drive with just one hand on the wheel, this is a dangerous situation. Manual distractions can include reaching for an item, texting, grabbing for something in the backseat, eating, or drinking.
Visual Distractions
Visual distractions are those that force the driver to take his or her eyes off the road. For instance, looking down at a phone to read a text is a visual distraction. Even looking at an event occurring on the side of the road is a visual distraction, and the driver may not see a vehicle stopping in front of them and cause a rear-end collision.
Cognitive Distractions
Cognitive distractions are those that cause any driver to lose focus on their task, which should be driving. Unfortunately, even listening to loud music is a cognitive distraction. Many people experience highway hypnosis, in which they’re thinking about certain responsibilities instead of driving, and they make it to their destination without even remembering how.
At Walner Law®, we understand how dangerous distractions are. Our Chicago car accident lawyers are here for you if someone else’s actions cause you harm. We’ll go above and beyond to safeguard your rights and pursue the compensation you need.
