When you think of distracted driving in Florida, you might think of talking on a phone or looking down to get something off the seat beside you. While driving, it’s important to maintain eye contact with the road in order to decrease the risk of an accident and decrease the chances of legal issues that could arise.
Physical distractions
If you take one or both hands off the steering wheel while driving, this is usually a type of physical distraction that could result in an accident that causes a personal injury. These distractions can include eating or drinking while in the car, brushing your hair or applying makeup, or even turning the knobs to operate the radio and other features in your car. Without both hands on the wheel, it’s can be easier to lose control of your vehicle and veer into the other lane of traffic or off the road.
Vision
When you perform any type of activity that takes your eyes off the road, then it’s considered a visual distraction. Texting on a mobile device is one of the most common forms of this type of distracted driving. Utilizing your navigation system, looking off the road for stores, or looking at billboards are other examples.
Cognitive
While driving, you might listen to music or have thoughts of the day on your mind. These would be considered cognitive distractions. Talking to other passengers or pets can also fall under this category.
While in a car, keeping both hands on the steering wheel and both eyes on the road can decrease the risk of an accident by removing distracted driving.