The 3 Main Types of Distracted Driving (and Why They’re So Dangerous)

Roads are unpredictable, and even a moment of inattention can lead to a life-changing crash. When a driver becomes distracted—whether for a few seconds or longer—they put everyone around them at risk. If you were injured because another driver wasn’t paying attention, understanding how distractions occur can help you recognize negligence and protect your rights.

Distracted driving generally falls into three categories. Each one affects drivers differently, but all can be extremely dangerous.

1. Manual Distractions

Manual distractions happen when a driver takes one or both hands off the steering wheel.

Even a quick reach for something can be enough to lose control of the vehicle. Examples include:

• Picking up a phone

• Adjusting the radio or GPS

• Eating or drinking

• Reaching for items in the passenger seat or back seat

When a driver’s hands aren’t on the wheel, their ability to steer, react, or correct the vehicle drops instantly.

2. Visual Distractions

Visual distractions take a driver’s eyes off the road—even for a split second.

Most people think of texting, but visual distractions can happen in many ways:

• Reading a message or notification

• Looking at passengers

• Checking something on the dashboard

• Turning to look at something outside (accidents, signs, scenery, etc.)

If a driver isn’t looking ahead, they won’t see sudden changes in traffic, road hazards, or stopped vehicles.

3. Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind drifts away from driving.

Even with hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, a distracted mind can cause delayed reaction times and poor decisions.

Common examples include:

• Daydreaming or “zoning out”

• Stress, emotional conversations, or heated arguments

• Singing loudly or being overly engaged in music

• Talking to passengers

• Fatigue or highway hypnosis

Some activities—like texting—combine all three types of distraction, making them especially dangerous.

Why a Few Seconds of Distraction Is Enough to Cause a Crash

At 55 mph, your car travels roughly the length of a football field in just 5 seconds. If a driver spends those 5 seconds looking at their phone or reaching for something, they’re essentially driving blind.

Those few moments can lead to:

• Rear-end collisions

• High-speed crashes

• Pedestrian and cyclist accidents

• Drifting into other lanes

• Running red lights or stop signs

Distracted driving is entirely preventable—and when someone’s carelessness causes harm, they can be held legally responsible.

For more information, contact our office at Askew & Associates, P.A. by calling 954-546-2699.

Disclaimer: this blog post is not intended to be legal advice. We highly recommend speaking to an attorney if you have any legal concerns.