Distracted driving is a serious problem everywhere. If you're inclined to blame cell phones for the majority of distracted driving accidents that occur, however, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually a lot of reasons drivers can't keep their eyes on the road.

What Are The Different Types Of Distractions?

Researchers have discovered that not all distractions are built the same. They can be divided into three different basic types:

• Visual distractions, or things that take the driver's eye off the road
• Manual distraction, or things that take the driver's hands off the wheel
• Cognitive distractions, or things that take the driver's mind away from the road and driving

Oddly enough, however, visual and manual distractions are not the number one cause of accidents. Instead, about 62% of drivers who get into a distracted driving incident admit that they were just "lost in thought." Their mind just wandered.

What Else Causes Distracted Driving?

Aside from just not paying attention to the task of driving or cell phone use, some other causes of distracted driving include:

• Curiosity about external distractions, like an accident on the road
• Passengers who are arguing, upset or talking
• Reaching for something that has fallen behind a seat
• Adjusting the car's temperature, radio, or other controls
• Pets that are not properly restrained in the car
• Eating or drinking while in motion
• Smoking or vaping while in motion

Any of these activities is enough to cause an accident -- and some drivers do more than one at a time, like chat with passengers and eat lunch while on the road!

Why Is It Important To Know This Information?

First, you don't ever want to put yourself at risk by driving while distracted. Knowing what not to do is always wise. Second, you may someday be in a car accident. If you are, listen very carefully to what the driver or witnesses say happened.

You may hear a driver say something like, "I just looked away for a second to check the kids!" or "I just reached for the radio!" That's essentially an admission that the driver was distracted -- which means that he or she is likely liable for the wreck and any injuries you've suffered.

Sometimes, it takes a little work to prove that the other driver was distracted to the satisfaction of an insurance company or a jury. If you're having a hard time getting a fair settlement after your injury, talk to an auto accident injury lawyer today like The Lombardo Law Firm.