It is clear that cellphones are a distraction for drivers. Even though they are not supposed to use handheld devices, many do. They could be texting, streaming music, utilizing a GPS, taking pictures or videos, browsing social media and much more.
Some drivers try to get around this distraction. They still want to use their device, but they only do so when they are stopped in traffic. As long as the car is in motion, they keep their eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel.
But, while this approach may feel safe, some studies indicate that it is not.
27 more seconds
What these studies find is that distraction from a cellphone lasts for about 27 more seconds, even after the driver is no longer engaging with their phone. Someone may have been reading text messages at a red light and set their phone down when the light turned green, for example. They think they are no longer distracted, but in reality, they are distracted for roughly half a minute.
Part of the problem is cognitive. They are still mentally thinking about whatever they were doing on their device, and that does not change instantly.
Another problem is that they do not monitor the conditions around them when they are stopped. If a driver sets their phone down and steps on the gas, they may not realize that a pedestrian has entered the crosswalk or that an emergency vehicle is approaching the intersection. In this sense, they are still distracted, and that cellphone use is still impacting their decision-making and driving ability.
Have you been injured?
Have you been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver? If so, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation.