Drivers should not use their cellphones behind the wheel, as they are a significant source of driver distraction. Someone who is trying to text and drive is vastly more likely to cause a car accident, similar to someone who is impaired by alcohol. They are simply going to make avoidable mistakes due to the distraction.
However, there are drivers who still want to engage with their device in the car. To avoid a citation for texting and driving, and to attempt to avoid the distraction itself, they decide to use the cellphone at red lights. As long as they are stopped and waiting for the signal to change, they think it is safe to check their notifications or text messages.
The mental distraction lasts for 27 seconds
It is true that putting the phone down when the car is in motion reduces the physical and visual distraction. The driver is holding the wheel and looking at the road while the car is moving.
But what drivers sometimes fail to realize is that using a cellphone is also a cognitive or mental distraction. Studies have found that this lasts for around 27 more seconds, even after that driver has stopped engaging with their mobile device.
In other words, as the driver begins moving again and navigates through the intersection, they are still mentally distracted and much more likely to cause a serious car accident.
Do you deserve financial compensation?
The best tactic is simply to stay off your phone any time you are in your vehicle, whether it is moving or not. Even if you do this consistently, however, you could suffer injuries in an accident that another distracted driver causes. If so, then you may deserve financial compensation for medical bills and other damages.