Distracted driving is caused by anything that takes a driver's attention away from the road. Distracted driving can happen to any driver and is often the cause of many car accidents. Given the amount of potential distractions and the number of drivers in California, distracted driving has a significant impact on car accident situations.

Distracted driving has become synonymous with texting while driving. Texting while driving does cause distracted driving, but so do simple actions such as eating and changing the radio station. Small distraction may seem insignificant, but can distract a driver for approximately the length of a football field. In four to five seconds a distracted driver can travel one hundred yards without focusing on the road.

Many drivers who are concerned about the distraction caused by texting choose to talk on a cellphone or use a hands-free device while driving. A report from the University of Utah claims these practices still cause the driver inattention necessary to cause an accident. The report claims the distraction caused by a hands-free cell phone conversation causes the same level of distraction as a drunk driver with a blood alcohol concentration of .08. Most drivers do not associate talking on the phone as the equivalent of driving drunk. The report suggests the best way to decrease distracted driving is to only use electronic devices when not operating a vehicle.

Distracted driving can affect any driver and creates a scenario for potential car accidents. If you are the victim of a car accident caused by a distracted driver, contact a personal injury attorney to ensure you are receiving adequate compensation for your injuries.

Source: wtva.com, "Distracted driving involves more than texting," C.J. LeMaster, Feb. 5, 2012