A motor vehicle can travel several hundred feet in the time it takes to read or write a text message, and a texting driver might have no idea of what lies ahead in the process. While this can be a scary concept, it still might not be uncommon for you to cross paths with such negligence while out on California roads.
The most troubling aspect of distracted driving might involve the notion that most drivers may be aware of the risks involved, yet some still choose to exhibit such behavior. Even if you feel it vital to maintain focus while driving, if you cross paths with a distracted driver, there may be little you can do to avoid a potential disaster.
What motivates such behavior
Texting and driving may be one of the most dangerous types of driving behaviors, as such an action may constitute as a visual, manual, and cognitive distraction all at once. Studies indicate that some factors that might motivate one to exhibit such behavior may include:
- Multitasking: While there may be a multitude of drivers who feel that they can easily perform more than one task at a time without losing focus, studies show that the human brain is not truly capable of multitasking.
- False confidence: While some drivers may have confidence in their ability to avoid errors while texting and driving, it could take little more than a moment of inattention for disaster to strike.
- Staying connected: Studies also suggest that there may be many drivers who simply cannot bear the thought of missing out on something, and the constant need to stay connected could only act to increase the risks of a potential disaster.
- Entertainment: Texting and driving may also act as a form of entertainment for some, and in a technological era, it might not be uncommon for entertainment to seem more important than safety.
In some cases, drivers may simply show reckless disregard to the safety of others. Should you cross paths with such negligence, you could be the one left suffering the repercussions.
Outcome of a distracted driving crash
Texting while driving is just one example of a type of dangerous driving behavior, and collisions involving distracted drivers can have catastrophic ramifications. Should another driver’s reckless actions create a hazardous scenario, the fallout of the incident could leave you with severe or even life-changing injuries and facing a long road to recovery. While there might be little you can do to change what occurred, it could be helpful to seek insight on your available options and the next steps to take to protect your future interests.