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Distracted Driving Series Part 3: Cognitive Distractions

Aug 27, 2021 - Car Accidents by

In part three of our three-part series on distracted driving, we turn our attention to cognitive distractions. This type of distraction occurs when a driver’s mind wanders to anything other than operating the motor vehicle they are driving. These types of distractions can be difficult for a Tuscaloosa car accident attorney to prove, which is why it is essential to consult with a law firm that has a proven track record of success representing victims injured by distracted drivers. 

Our Tuscaloosa Car Accident Attorney Breaks Down The Various Types Of Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions are extremely dangerous to both the person that is distracted, their passengers, and other drivers. Examples of cognitive distractions include:

Daydreaming

Daydream typically happens when a person is driving a route very familiar to them. They are so used to the course they are driving their mind drifts to other things besides operating the vehicle. This can cause a driver to not notice hazards and slow their ability to react should a dangerous situation arise. 

Driving Under the Influence

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a huge contributor to motor vehicle accidents. While most people understand that driving after consuming alcohol is DUI, they do not realize there are other actions that can be considered DUI as well, including:

  • Driving a vehicle after taking a prescription drug that was not actually subscribed to you
  • Operating a motor vehicle after taking a drug that was prescribed to you, but came with a warning that you are not to operate heavy machinery after consumption

No matter the type of substance consumed, a DUI can lead to costly fines, a suspended license, and even jail time. Driving while under the influence of any type of drugs or alcohol is never a good idea.  

Road Rage

Road rage occurs when a driver becomes overly stressed and frustrated due to a perceived difficult situation encountered while operating a vehicle. Road rage causes drivers to “lose their cool” and operate their vehicle in an unsafe, and sometimes even dangerous, manner. Examples of road rage include running other vehicles off the road, tailgating closely, and ignoring traffic signals. 

Driving While Fatigued

Fatigue is a cognitive distraction that is often overlooked, however, an overly tired driver can be just as dangerous as a drunk driver. Fatigued drivers are prone to fall asleep behind the wheel and generally have much slower reaction times than well-rested motor vehicle operators. They also have extremely poor concentration. 

Let a Tuscaloosa Car Accident Attorney Help You

When you’ve been injured due to the actions of a distracted driver, you need a Tuscaloosa car accident attorney that understands the legal process and how to recover the money you are owed. At Cross & Smith, LLC, we have successfully represented injured people across the state of Alabama. Contact our firm via our website or by calling 1-877-791-0618 today to schedule a no-cost initial consultation.

Hear What Our Clients Have To Say

"We realize there are many options for representation out there, and we talked with several of the “big names” before finding Cross and Smith. With the others, it felt like we were being bullied, in a tank with hungry sharks. We are still receiving junk mail from some. We are SO thankful we were referred to Justin Smith (Cross and Smith) for our accident claim. He and his team were absolutely amazing."
Posted By: Jamie Wyatt

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