How Distracted Driving Causes Car Accidents
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of serious car accidents in New York and across the country. In a single recent year, distracted driving was responsible for more than 3,000 deaths nationwide. Studies also show that distraction dramatically increases crash risk—teen drivers are up to eight times more likely to be involved in a collision when distracted, while adult drivers can double their accident risk by simply reaching for a cell phone.
Despite these well-known dangers, many drivers continue to take their attention off the road to answer calls, read or send text messages, adjust devices, or handle other in-car distractions. Even a brief lapse in focus can have devastating consequences.
Why Distracted Driving Is So Dangerous
Driving requires your full attention. When a driver becomes distracted, their ability to react to sudden hazards is significantly reduced.
Distractions take your eyes off the road. Reading or responding to a text message can divert your eyes for about five seconds. At 55 miles per hour, that is enough time to travel the length of a football field without seeing what is ahead. In that moment, you could miss a vehicle stopping suddenly, a pedestrian crossing the street, or an animal darting into traffic.
Distractions reduce awareness of important details. Focused drivers notice subtle warning signs—another driver drifting between lanes, slowing unexpectedly, or driving aggressively. Distracted drivers often miss these cues, increasing the likelihood of a collision.
Distractions limit vehicle control. Some distractions require drivers to remove one or both hands from the steering wheel. Even if a driver notices a hazard, delayed or awkward steering can prevent them from avoiding an accident.
In short, distracted driving can turn even a cautious driver into a serious danger to others on the road.
Types of Driver Distraction
Driver distraction generally falls into three categories. Each can contribute to serious accidents on its own, but many common behaviors involve more than one type at the same time.
Manual Distractions
Manual distractions occur when a driver removes their hands from the steering wheel to perform another task. This reduces the driver’s ability to maneuver quickly or safely.
Visual Distractions
Visual distractions take a driver’s eyes off the road. If a driver cannot see what is happening around them, they cannot respond appropriately to changing traffic conditions.
Cognitive Distractions
Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind is focused on something other than driving. This can lead to “autopilot” driving, where reaction times slow and hazards go unnoticed.
Many distractions—such as turning to speak to a passenger or using a cell phone—combine multiple types of distraction, making them especially dangerous.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents
While texting and driving is one of the most widely recognized dangers, it is far from the only distraction that leads to serious car accidents.
Texting and cell phone use. Texting while driving involves all three types of distraction—visual, manual, and cognitive—and can increase crash risk by as much as 23 times.
Eating or drinking. Grabbing food, handling drinks, or cleaning up spills can quickly take a driver’s hands and attention off the road.
Putting on makeup or grooming. Using mirrors, brushes, or cosmetics while driving creates both visual and manual distractions that significantly increase accident risk.
Adjusting music or in-car systems. Changing radio stations, playlists, or phone settings—especially through dashboard screens—can divert attention at critical moments.
Using GPS devices. While navigation systems are helpful, programming or frequently checking them can cause dangerous visual and manual distractions.
Children and pets. Kids and pets often demand immediate attention, drop items, or move unpredictably, making it difficult for drivers to stay focused.
Passenger interactions. Loud or demanding passengers can distract any driver, particularly younger or less experienced motorists.
Mental distractions. Stress, fatigue, daydreaming, or physical discomfort can pull a driver’s focus away from the road even when no physical distractions are present.
How to Reduce Distractions While Driving
Preventing distracted driving starts with preparation and good habits.
Prepare Before You Drive
Before pulling away, take time to:
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Adjust your seat and mirrors
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Set the temperature
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Select music or radio stations
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Program your GPS
Limit Technology Use
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Keep your phone out of reach or in the back seat
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Turn off notifications or use “Do Not Disturb While Driving” features
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Disable smartwatch notifications while driving
Manage Passengers and Pets
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Teach children to avoid distracting the driver
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Secure pets in carriers or with pet seat belts
Avoid Multitasking
Eating, grooming, or handling other tasks should wait until you reach your destination. Driving demands your full attention.
Allow Extra Time
Rushing increases stress and distraction. Leaving early reduces the temptation to multitask or take risks.
Pull Over When Necessary
If something cannot wait—such as an urgent phone call or addressing a passenger issue—pull over safely before handling it.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? Speak With a Car Accident Attorney
Distracted driving accidents often result in serious injuries, lost wages, and long-term consequences for victims and their families. If you were injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
An experienced New York car accident attorney can investigate the crash, identify evidence of distraction, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
At Applebaum Accident Group, we understand how disruptive a car accident can be. Our team is committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery.
Contact Applebaum Accident Group today for a consultation(855-Call-Paul)
to discuss your distracted driving accident and learn how we can help.
