Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a well-known major cause of traffic accidents and arrests. There is less known about distracted driving, although awareness is increasing among the general public. While there are certain tests that people undergo to determine whether they have been driving under the influence, it is a bit trickier to prove distracted driving.
What constitutes distracted driving in California and other states?
Texting
Texting while driving is one of the most common culprits of distracted driving. Texting is dangerous because not only are you taking your eyes off the road, but you are concentrating on what you are saying to the person you are talking to rather than focusing on potential hazards around you.
Eating
Eating is a form of distracted driving because it causes the driver to take one or both of their hands off the steering wheel. Both hands should be on the wheel when driving because it allows the person behind the wheel to respond quickly and make a sharp turn if needed.
Daydreaming
Driving long distances can get boring at times and there is often not much to do besides thinking about things. However, getting too involved in your thoughts is a form of distracted driving. Make sure that you are always cognizant of road conditions, how fast you are going, and the cars around you.
When you know some of the causes of distracted driving, you can prepare yourself to avoid those things and be a safer driver and avoid injuries.
