The proliferation of mobile devices offers many benefits, such as staying in touch with your loved ones no matter where you are in the world. However, mobile devices can also be hazardous in some situations.
Take driving, for instance. You must remain focused on the act of driving at all times to ensure safety for yourself and others. You must also avoid all distractions behind the wheel, including those posed by your mobile device.
Types of Driving Distractions
In general, there are three types of driving distractions to be aware of:
Visual distractions are those that take your eyes off the wheel, such as looking at the dashboard display to change the radio station. Manual distractions require you to remove your hands from the meal, such as when eating fast food. Cognitive distractions are anything that take your mind off driving. Daydreaming and talking with passengers are two types of common cognitive distractions.
The Hazards of Texting While Driving
While other types of driving distractions can lead to accidents, texting while driving encompasses all three of the above behaviors. Your hands are occupied – and removed from the wheel – while composing messages. When reading messages, your eyes are off the road. And the process of texting prevents your mind from being focused on the task at hand.
These hazards illustrate why texting while driving is illegal in most places. In addition to the serious accident it may cause, using a mobile device behind the wheel can land you in serious legal trouble. In addition to fines, you may also receive a reckless driving charge depending on the nature of the accident.
What to Do If You’re Involved in an Accident
For many decades, Martinez, Hart, Sanchez & Romero, P.C. have assisted motorists throughout Albuquerque with negligent car accidents. Our attorneys have full knowledge of the law, and we’re happy to pass on our knowledge to our clients.
With our assistance, you can recover from a damaging auto accident and get your life back on track once again. Feel free to contact us to learn more, or call (505) 343-1776 to discuss your case with an attorney.