What Are the CDC’s 3 Categories of Driver Distractions?
Distracted driving causes an alarming number of accidents: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, up to 16 percent of all wrecks in 2013 involved at least one distracted driver. Those crashes caused 424,000 injuries and more than 3,100 deaths.
Unfortunately, distracted driving is becoming more common thanks to the proliferation of smartphones. This is why the California Office of Traffic Safety banned the use of cell phones while driving. That means it is illegal to text, make calls or browse the Internet behind the wheel.
The best way to avoid a distracted driving accident is to eliminate distractions from your vehicle – that’s no secret. Unfortunately, you cannot control the actions of other drivers, many of whom are not proactive about safety.
If you were injured by a negligent, drunk or distracted motorist in California, contact Jeffrey E. Estes & Associates. A San Diego personal-injury lawyer will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income, medical bills and other damages related to the crash.
Our car accident attorneys have been litigating personal-injury cases on behalf of California residents for almost 30 years. Call 855-290-8080 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also learn more about car accident injury claims by visiting USAttorneys.com.
Let’s take a look at the various categories of distractions and the most common causes of distracted driving wrecks:
CDC’s 3 Categories of Driver Distractions
Using a cell phone behind the wheel is just one way that drivers engage in distracted behavior. There are countless distractions that motorists face every time they hit the road.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has organized all driver distractions into three categories:
- Visual Distractions: These take our eyes off the road;
- Manual Distractions: These take at least one of your hands off the wheel; and
- Cognitive Distractions: These take your mind off the task of driving.
California’s ban on the use of a cell phone while driving will no doubt have a positive effect on the rate of distraction-related accidents. However, there are dozens of other distractions that can cause deadly wrecks – and drivers should make a concerted effort to avoid them. Common examples include:
- Drinking or eating;
- Grooming;
- Talking with passengers;
- Using a GPS system;
- Reading;
- Watching videos; and
- Adjusting the radio.
If you were hurt by a distracted, drunk or otherwise negligent motorist in California, turn to Jeffrey E. Estes & Associates. A San Diego personal-injury lawyer will compassionately and aggressively represent your interests.
Our car accident attorneys have recovered more than $150 million for our clients in successful settlements and verdicts. If your case goes to trial, we have the litigation experience to represent your interests in court. Call 855-290-8080 to schedule a free initial consultation.
