The Hidden Dangers of GPS, Eating, and Other Forms of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has become one of the most common causes of serious car accidents in recent years. A lot of drivers assume that only texting causes these crashes, but many other behaviors contribute to the growing number of injury cases our Binghamton distracted driving accident lawyers handle every year.

Protect yourself, your loved ones, and everyone on the road by taking a moment to learn about some of the less-acknowledged forms of distracted driving.

Introduction to Distracted Driving

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts attention from the primary task of operating a vehicle, putting everyone on the road at risk. Whether it’s glancing at a navigation system, sending a text message, or talking on a cell phone, these distractions can have serious—and sometimes fatal—consequences. The hidden dangers of distracted driving are a leading cause of motor vehicle crashes and car accidents, contributing significantly to traffic fatalities each year.

The dangers of distracted driving go far beyond just texting behind the wheel. Cognitive distractions, such as engaging in conversations or thinking about something other than driving, can be just as dangerous as visual distractions like looking at a GPS screen or manual distractions such as eating or adjusting the radio. Each type of distraction reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, thereby increasing the likelihood of distracted-driving accidents.

The impact of these risky behaviors can be devastating. Distracted driving accidents often result in severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage, which can change lives in an instant. Personal injury law exists to help victims recover from these tragedies, but the best approach is prevention. By understanding the hidden dangers of distracted driving and adopting safer driving habits, drivers can protect themselves, their passengers, and others on the road.

Vehicle manufacturers are stepping up by introducing advanced driver assistance systems and hands-free features designed to minimize distractions. However, it’s important to remember that no technology can replace safe driving practices and a driver’s full attention. Stricter laws and enforcement are also crucial, especially for younger drivers who may be more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors.

To stay focused and avoid the potential dangers of distracted driving, it’s essential to recognize common distractions—such as using a handheld device, talking to passengers, or adjusting in-car technology. Being aware of your driving environment, including other vehicles and changing traffic conditions, can help you anticipate hazards and make safer choices.

In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of distractions drivers face and share practical tips for distraction-free driving. By taking proactive steps and committing to safe driving practices, we can all help reduce the number of accidents caused by distracted driving and save lives.

How GPS and In-Car Technology Increase Crash Risk

Modern vehicles contain large screens, various features, alerts, and voice systems, all placed directly in front of drivers. While these tools offer convenience, they can also increase the risk of car crashes.

Causes of in-car technology and GPS distracted driving accidents in New York include the following:

• Drivers take their eyes off the road to read screens.
• Voice commands can still divide mental focus.
• Touchscreens require multiple steps to operate.
• Re-routing alerts can cause sudden distractions.
• Overreliance on navigation may reduce situational awareness.

Manual distractions involve taking your hands off the wheel, such as adjusting the radio or eating. Visual distractions occur when you take your eyes off the road, such as looking at a GPS or checking your phone. Programming a GPS or looking at the screen for just five seconds at 55 mph is equivalent to traveling the length of a football field without looking. Technology solutions and advanced technologies, such as in-vehicle monitoring and telematics, are increasingly used to help reduce distracted driving.

However, over-reliance on GPS technology can lead to ignoring road signs, traffic signals, or changing conditions, and may result in delayed reactions to prompts, causing sudden, dangerous lane changes or stops.

Avoid adjusting your GPS or acknowledging notifications while in motion. If you need to make an adjustment, pull over or have a passenger help. When using voice commands, remember that hands- free devices still cause cognitive distraction and do not fully eliminate the risks associated with phone use while driving.

Eating, Drinking and Other Physical Distractions

Life seems to move faster these days than ever before, which means you don’t always have time to sit down for a quiet meal. However, if you regularly dine on the go, you should know that eating while driving causes many car accidents across the state every year.

Holding food or drinks often leaves one hand on the wheel. Spills cause panic reactions that pull eyes and hands (and minds) away from driving, and reaching for dropped items forces drivers to look down instead of ahead. Even opening wrappers or containers can be enough of a distraction to cause a wreck. It only takes a split second.

Refrain from eating or multitasking when you’re operating a vehicle to stay focused, and ask passengers for help if needed to avoid distractions while driving. Taking regular breaks during long drives is essential for maintaining focus and alertness.

Visual vs. Cognitive Distractions While Driving

Not all distractions affect drivers in the same way. Each of the following presents a unique risk to not only you, but everyone on the road:

• Visual distractions pull eyes away from the road. Examples include GPS screens, food, dashboard controls, and phone notifications.
• Manual distractions remove hands from the wheel. Examples include eating, adjusting devices, holding objects, and texting.
• Cognitive distractions take the driver’s focus off driving. Examples include conversations, making navigation decisions, and doing multiple things at once.

Hands-free activities can also impair reaction time. The brain cannot fully focus on driving while handling other tasks, even when both hands are on the wheel and eyes are on the road.

How a Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help Victims

A distracted driving attorney in Binghamton, NY can help by:

• Investigating the accident to uncover evidence of distracted driving
• Obtaining phone records and GPS usage logs
• Interviewing witnesses
• Securing surveillance or dashcam footage
• Working with accident reconstruction experts
• Dealing with insurers
• Negotiating for a fair settlement
• Representing you in court, if necessary

The team at Scott C. Gottlieb, Injury Law Attorney stands ready to fight for the accountability you deserve after a distracted driver causes you harm. Contact us today for your free consultation.