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Distracted driving is a major issue among daily commuters

On Behalf of | Aug 17, 2022 | Car Accidents |

When caught in bumper-to-bumper traffic on your way to work you may observe others around you checking their cellphones for text messages. However, texting and driving is not the only distracting behavior commuters engage in.

Texting and driving is not the only distraction commuters face

Texting and driving is a common form of distraction, but there are others. According to one source, nearly 9 out of 10 commuters routinely perform other activities while behind the wheel. Some of these activities are even more risky than texting and driving.

About 18% of this multi-tasking time is spent going over emails. An additional 9.5% is spent replying to these messages.

Almost 9% of commuters read while behind the wheel. In addition, approximately 4% of commuters use this time behind the wheel to videoconference with co-workers or customers.

Multitasking behind the wheel is a mistake

Trying to multitask while driving is a mistake that can easily lead to a car crash. For example, if you are reading and responding an email while driving you are distracted in three ways.

You are visually distracted because you are looking at the email on your phone rather than the road. You are manually distracted because you are manipulating your cellphone when reading and replying to an email. Finally, you are cognitively distracted because your mind is on the email, not the task of driving.

It is concerning that so many commuters think it is okay to multitask behind the wheel. Unfortunately, this overconfidence in your abilities could lead to a distracted driving accident. If you were injured by a distracted driver on your morning or evening commute you will want to make sure you are aware of all your options for compensation including the possibility of filing a personal injury lawsuit.