Montana drivers could put themselves in harm’s way by driving while distracted. According to a AAA study, 88 percent of respondents said that distracted driving was on the rise. However, for those looking to keep their employees safe while on the road, it will take more than statistics to change their behavior. This is because most people feel as if they won’t be impacted by the dangers that distracted driving can cause.
Drivers can be distracted even when their eyes are on the road. This is referred to as cognitive distraction, and it can occur without a person realizing it. Cognitive distractions may result in a driver missing important information that could prevent an accident or other negative situation from taking place. When a person uses a smartphone, it can be a manual, visual and cognitive distraction. In other words, a person has taken his or her eyes and attention away from the road.
Furthermore, a driver using a smartphone has also taken his or her hands off of the wheel. Drivers should understand that operating a motor vehicle while tired can result in significant impairment. To avoid making an error while driving, an individual should have at least 6.5 hours of rest in the 24 hours prior to getting behind the wheel. It is also important to get high-quality rest to avoid mistakes while driving.
Getting into a motor vehicle accident may have a long-term impact on a person’s life. It may affect a victim’s ability to go to work, get an education or enjoy the company of others. Those who have been in an accident may be able to obtain compensation from the driver who caused it. This may be true if he or she was distracted, tired or otherwise negligent when the car accident took place.
