What Are Cognitive Distractions While Driving?
Many of us commute on a daily basis. Driving to and from work can get boring and monotonous over time, especially when the commute is long and filled with traffic. A lot of drivers get through the commute by multi-tasking. It may not seem like a big deal to do other things while driving. However, when you’re not fully focused on the road, this is called distracted driving.
There are three types of distracted driving: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distractions are ones that take your eyes off the road. They may include texting, changing the radio station, and dealing with pets or children. Manual distractions are ones that take your hands off the steering wheel. These may include eating, applying makeup, and playing on your phone.
But what are cognitive distractions? They are mentally demanding tasks that take your focus off of driving. An example of this would be talking on a hands-free cell phone. No, you’re not using your hands to operate the phone, and your eyes may still be on the road, but you’re still mentally distracted.
You may also be emotional, and emotions can negatively affect our ability to drive. Feelings such as anger and sadness can keep you from driving with a clear mind. Because you are not at full attention, your reaction time slows down significantly since your mind is preoccupied with other thoughts.
Cognitive distractions while driving are not trivial matters. They can have severe consequences and can cause fatal accidents, so it is crucial to avoid them at all costs. It is your responsibility as a driver to stay focused on the road at all times. Driving is a responsibility that should be taken seriously.
Examples of Cognitive Distractions
Besides talking on the phone, other common cognitive distractions include:
- Daydreaming or mind wandering is a common example of cognitive distraction. It occurs when drivers are lost in thought and not paying attention to the road. A person may be thinking about their upcoming plans or maybe upset about an issue that happened earlier in the day.
- Texting and emailing. Texting or emailing while driving is one of the most dangerous forms of cognitive distraction. It involves all three types of distracted driving, as it requires drivers to take their eyes off the road, their hands off the wheel, and their attention away from driving.
- Eating and drinking. Eating and drinking while driving can also distract drivers from the road. It can cause them to take their hands off the wheel and their minds off driving.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
There are a lot of things that can distract you while driving. You may not think of how daydreaming and other thoughts can make you pay less attention while behind the wheel, but they can.
These distractions can lead to serious accidents. If you have been involved in a crash, seek legal help from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. Don’t pay for someone else’s negligence. Call us first. Schedule a free consultation by filling out the online form or calling our office at 281-347-3247.
Source:
drivesafeonline.org/traffic-school/cognitive-distractions/
