Distracted driving is a big problem throughout the Baton Rouge area. With the interstate and major thoroughfares snaking through the city, drivers must head out on the road only when they’re ready to give their full attention to driving. Unfortunately, many people who live in Louisiana and those who are traveling through our beautiful state allow themselves to become distracted by various things.

There are three areas of distraction that directly impact drivers. These include:

• Cognitive: not thinking about driving
• Manual: hands not on the steering wheel
• Visual: not looking at the roadway

Talking to other passengers, eating or drinking, manipulating GPS, climate control or the stereo, and using a cellphone are all distractions that can plague drivers. Even looking at billboards on the side of the road can be problematic.

In Louisiana, texting while you drive is illegal. This is considered a primary offense, so police officers can pull you over and ticket you if they catch you. Don’t think that you’re going to be able to slip past them with distracted driving because they’re trained to watch for the signs.

Drivers who aren’t paying attention to the roadway can cause catastrophic injuries. In only five seconds, you drive the length of a regulation football field if you’re going 55 miles per hour. Many accidents can occur in that time.

For people who are struck by distracted drivers, seeking compensation is possible. You might need considerable medical care and you may be unable to return to work right away. The financial impact of this shouldn’t be your responsibility. Instead, your case can hold the distracted driver liable for those expenses.