When a person uses a phone while driving, his or her attention becomes compromised. According to IIHS, cellphone use increases accident risk while driving.
While most people understand the consequences of texting and driving, talking on the phone can result in some of the same consequences.
Cognitive distractions
Talking on the phone or reading a text message takes a person’s mind from the road. When talking, a person may be paying attention to the road, but he or she still has some of the attention compromised. People can become distracted by the conversation and miss hazards on the road.
Manual distractions
Texting is one of the major culprits when manual distractions are concerned. Texting and driving take a person’s eyes from the road. Additionally, it takes a person’s hands from the steering wheel. If someone texts while driving, he or she cannot react to hazards or other problems that may occur on the road. For example, if you brake for an emergency like an animal or child crossing the road, the other driver does not have time to react appropriately.
Visual distractions
Visual distractions include any distraction that takes a driver’s eyes off the road. Manipulating a cellphone, GPS or sending a text can result in a person not seeing the road ahead. Unfortunately, road conditions can change quickly.
Generally, cellphone users tend to be more risky drivers than those who do not use mobile devices. To avoid crashes, drivers should avoid their phones. When a person causes an accident because he or she was using a phone, he or she may be liable for the accident.