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Different Types of Distracted Driving

April 30, 2020

distracted driving accidentThe number of distracted driving cases has significantly increased over the years with the increase of cell phone usage. In fact, in the state of Pennsylvania alone, it is estimated that more than 15,000 accidents each year are due to distracted driving.

Related blog: Top 6 Causes of Auto Accidents

The Most Common Types of Distracted Driving

While most people connect distracted driving to the use of cell phones, this is not the only cause of distracted driving. Here are a few other common types of distracted driving:

  • Eating or drinking
  • Interacting with other passengers
  • Using technology features on your vehicle, such as the GPS
  • Brushing hair or applying makeup
  • Reading or reviewing documents
  • Interacting with the radio
  • Focusing on children in the backseat
  • Reaching down to get something off of the floor

Distracted driving includes any action that takes your focus off of the road ahead. Distracted driving is often divided into the following types:
Manual: Manual distractions take your focus off of the steering wheel. They are actions that involve the manipulation of other items, such as the seatbelt or the radio.

  • Visual: Visual distractions are ones that take your visual focus off of the road ahead.
  • Auditory: Auditory distractions are sounds that affect your driving focus. This could include the radio or talking with a friend on your cell phone.
  • Cognitive: Cognitive distractions direct your attention to something else, meaning you are less likely to hear other vehicles or audible warnings.

Each of these distractions can come from your cell phone, other passengers in the vehicle, external noises, or even internally.

Pennsylvania Distracted Driving Laws

It is important to understand Pennsylvania’s distracted driving laws, so you can ensure that you are not only operating your vehicle in a safe manner, but so you are not met with a ticket. The state of Pennsylvania prohibits all texting and messaging while operating a motor vehicle. This includes cell phones, tablets, or any other type of messaging device. It is not illegal, however, to talk on your cell phone while operating a motor vehicle in Pennsylvania.

Drivers who are caught texting/messaging and driving could face a $50 fine and additional legal or court fees. While a sole texting and driving charge does not leave you with points on your record, it could lead to severe legal charges if the act leads to an auto accident. Texting and driving can make you at-fault for an auto accident and lead to a reckless driving charge.

When to Discuss Your Case With a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were injured in an auto accident where distracted driving is suspected it’s important to discuss the details of your case with a personal injury lawyer. Depending on the severity of the accident, you could be facing missed time off work or be left with ongoing medical charges. A lawyer who is familiar with Pennsylvania’s distracted driving laws can help you navigate your case.

Contact a Homestead Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Distracted Driving Case in Pennsylvania

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a distracted driving accident in Pennsylvania? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at the Law Office of Mark A. Smith represent clients injured because of distracted driving in Pittsburgh, Homestead, Erie, Greensburg, and throughout Pennsylvania. Call (412) 368-8398 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation about your case.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

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