There are four basic types of distracted driving. The type of distraction that caused the crash affects the type of evidence necessary to prove fault. For example, if the other driver was texting, an attorney may obtain phone records. If the driver was eating, an attorney may look for fast food receipts or surveillance videos from the restaurant. The four types of distractions on the road are:
- Visual. This refers to anything that takes a driver's eyes off the road. Examples include looking at billboards, checking makeup in the mirror, or looking at a GPS device while driving.
- Manual. This refers to anything that takes a driver's hands off the wheel. Examples include eating, drinking, smoking, or adjusting the radio or climate control.
- Cognitive. When a driver's mind is not on the road, an accident can happen fast. Examples of cognitive distractions include daydreaming, talking on the phone, or having an emotional conversation with a passenger.
- Combination/Electronic. Using electronic devices while driving frequently involves visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. This makes using electronics like smartphones and cell phones behind the wheel extremely dangerous.