When you are driving, you only have control over your own actions. You may be the safest driver in the world, but you cannot assume that others will make safe choices as well. Unfortunately, you may be a victim of distracted driving, one of the most common causes of car accidents in Kentucky and throughout the United States.
Distraction happens for many reasons, and drivers should be aware of the things that may take their attention from the road. Even one moment of distraction can result in an accident that may leave an innocent person with serious or fatal injuries. If you are the victim of this type of negligent behavior, you could have grounds to pursue compensation through a civil claim.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is a term used to describe anything that takes a driver’s focus off the road. There are different types of distraction, and they are all dangerous with the potential to cause an accident. The three main types of distracted driving include:
- Manual distraction — This involves taking one’s hands off the wheel for any length of time. This can include adjusting the radio, holding a phone or eating while driving.
- Visual distraction — This involves anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road and other cars. Reading a text, looking at a billboard or watching a GPS are examples of this.
- Cognitive distraction — This involves things that steal a driver’s focus, even if both hands are on the wheel. This might be taking a hands-free phone call, talking with a passenger or even looking at a billboard.
According to the CDC, around nine people die every day in the United States because of distracted driving. Thousands suffer injuries each week in distraction-related crashes. This is a serious issue that could place your health and safety at risk while you are driving.
The aftermath of a crash
It’s not easy to navigate the aftermath of a distraction-related accident. If you believe you have a case against another driver after a car crash, you do not have to walk through the civil justice process alone. You may find it helpful to speak with an attorney regarding the legal options available to you and the ways you may be able to claim recompense for your pain, suffering and economic losses.
