Is a smartphone a driving distraction? Most people are well aware that it is, and texting and driving is one of the main distractions drivers face. But it’s not just texting that is a problem. Distractions also come from listening to music, using social media, using a GPS, taking pictures, talking on the phone and much more.
One thing to note about cellphones, though, is that they’re not just creating one distraction. They are potentially creating three separate distractions at the same time. This is why they are so incredibly dangerous when used behind the wheel.
Cognitive distractions
First of all, no matter what the person is doing on their phone, it takes some level of mental energy. This creates a cognitive distraction. They should be thinking about what traffic is doing around them, for example, but they’re thinking about the conversation they’re having.
Visual distractions
Next, a cellphone creates a visual distraction any time that the driver looks at the device instead of the road. They may just be looking down for a second to change songs, or they may be looking down for 30 seconds while they try to type a text message. Either way, it’s a visual distraction.
Manual distractions
Finally, there are physical distractions every time a person holds a device in their hand, so they can’t have two hands on the steering wheel. This is part of the reason that even talking on the phone – if not using a hands-free device – is a substantial distraction.
Have you been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver? If so, be sure you know what legal steps to take.