There are many potential driving distractions. For most of them, it’s technically easy for drivers to avoid the distraction—they simply need to choose to do so.
For example, texting and driving is a very common distraction that leads to car accidents. Yet, all of these accidents could easily be avoided. Drivers just need to turn their phones off while in the car. Anyone distracted by their phone while driving is actively choosing that distraction over road safety.
However, some reports indicate that daydreaming is a top cause of car accidents. In this case, drivers aren’t paying attention because their thoughts are wandering. Unlike other distractions, daydreaming is much harder to avoid.
It happens without warning
The issue with daydreaming is that it’s not an active choice a driver makes. It can occur without warning, and many people don’t even realize they’re daydreaming until something snaps their thoughts back to the present moment.
For instance, a driver may be commuting home from work—a routine, relatively boring drive on a familiar road. While driving, they might naturally start thinking about work-related stress, such as upcoming deadlines. They only snap back to reality when they suddenly notice a red light ahead of them and realize they’re about to run it. By that point, it may already be too late to avoid an accident.
Seeking compensation
It’s always wise to stay focused on the road and make an effort to prevent your mind from wandering while driving. However, you could still be injured by other distracted drivers. If that happens, be sure you understand how to seek financial compensation.