Most people understand that they are distracted when they’re doing something else in the car. For instance, say that someone decides to read their text messages while they’re driving. As long as they’re looking at the screen and holding their phone, they’re distracted.
But what they may assume is that the distraction ends as soon as that phone use also ends. An example of this could be someone who checks their messages while stuck in a traffic jam. As traffic clears, they put their phone away and start driving again.
However, even though that person may not think they’re distracted, studies have found that they still are—for the next 27 seconds.
Why does this happen?
This happens because of the cognitive or mental element of distraction that’s introduced by the cellphone. Not only is that person holding their phone and looking at the screen, but they’re thinking about the conversation they’re having, the message they’re writing, the text they are reading or something of this nature. Whatever they were doing on the phone takes mental energy and focus.
When they put the phone down, they need to refocus on the road around them. They may do so, but it’s not an instantaneous process. There’s a bit of a delay, so they could still be thinking about those text messages even as they begin driving. This mental distraction can still lead to a serious car accident.
Seeking compensation
Have you been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver? If so, you may deserve financial compensation for lost wages, medical expenses and much more.