Distracted driving continues to cause dangerous car accidents on New Jersey roadways. Even a momentary lapse in attention can have devastating consequences for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. But if you understand exactly what constitutes distracted driving—and the laws designed to curb it—you can make safer choices behind the wheel.
What Counts as a Visual Distraction?
“Visual distractions” happen any time your eyes are not focused entirely on driving. That sort of distraction could mean glancing at your phone’s screen to read a text message, looking down at your GPS unit to confirm directions, or even taking a quick peek at a roadside billboard. In fact, just two seconds of looking away at 55 mph means driving the length of a football field blindfolded, which doubles the risk of a crash.
What Are Manual Distractions?
“Manual distractions” involve taking one or both hands off the steering wheel. Examples include reaching for that morning coffee cup, fumbling with a snack, or toggling the radio and climate controls. Even a simple action, such as adjusting a seat or picking up a dropped sunglasses case, removes critical steering control, leaving you less able to react when traffic suddenly slows or a child darts into the roadway.
How Do Cognitive Distractions Affect Driving?
“Cognitive distractions” occur when your mind drifts away from the task of driving. Any intense conversation with a passenger, an emotional phone call on speaker, or deep daydreaming can pull your thoughts off the road. When you focus on planning dinner or worrying about work, you lose the split-second reaction time needed to avoid unexpected dangers like brake lights ahead or a car merging into your lane.
Which Device Uses Are Prohibited by Law?
New Jersey law bans all handheld cell phone and electronic device use while driving, which includes reading or sending text messages, browsing social media apps, checking emails, and dialing phone numbers. The statute applies to every driver regardless of licensing status—those under 21 cannot even use the hands-free mode.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Ban?
The only exception New Jersey law makes for handheld device use is in genuine emergencies. Drivers may call 9-1-1, report a crime in progress, notify authorities of a fire or medical emergency, or contact law enforcement when they fear for themselves or another person’s safety.
Find Compassionate Legal Representation With the Atlantic City Car Accident Lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm
Dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident is overwhelming. But the Atlantic City car accident lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm understand the physical and emotional toll that distracted driving crashes can take on families. We have collected millions of dollars in settlements for our clients, and we stand ready to help you, too. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, our firm proudly serves clients across Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, Woodbury, and South Jersey. Call 609-926-3300 today or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation about your case.