Daydreaming is a common occurrence for just about every individual on the planet, ever. And while it can be enjoyable in those moments we don't feel like paying attention to the reality around us, it is absolutely essential when behind the wheel of a car. Distracted driving is not just a physical thing that involves the interruption of a cell phone or screaming children in the backseat, but rather if our mind is distracted that can be just as a risk for being out on the road. According to French researchers, about 50% of all people involved in car accidents would admit to daydreaming during their driving time.

This specific French study included 955 motorists who had at some point been involved in a car accident resulting in a form of physical injury. When given 2 different questions, the researchers concluded that 17% of them were guilty of daydreaming behind the wheel of their car when the accident occurred. And while this study only looked at a small number of drivers, it is safe to conclude that at least half of the drivers on the road today are distracted cognately while driving. When discussing the topic of a safe driver there are three crucial aspects that need to be intact at all times: cognitive, visual, and manual. While it is obvious that we need our hands on the wheel to control the car, and our eyes on the road to see what is around the vehicle, we often times forget that our cognitive focus is essential as well. The more our mind is focused elsewhere, the less likely we are to react to another car on the road, an upcoming turn, or stop light, etc. if a driver is mentally distracted while behind the wheel, the chance of a car accident ever increases.

While it is hard to prove that a driver is mentally distracted while behind the wheel, it is important to know that id you are ever involved in a car accident that results in injury because of the negligent actions of another individual, you may have a case to file a personal injury lawsuit. Contact a car accident attorney in your area in order to discuss your specific situation. While we cannot control the irresponsible and negligent actions of others on the road around us, we can play our part in practicing safe driving. Here are a few helpful tips in order to help you pay maximum attention while you are behind the wheel of your vehicle; remember your life and the lives of others can be at stake!

• Stay away from playing with the radio or music while driving- set a playlist before starting the engine and leave it until you stop the car
• If a talk radio or music is too distracting, drive in silence
• Eating and drinking can be distracting, keep this to a minimum
• Whatever you do, do not wear an MP3 player while driving, this can keep you from hearing important sounds on the road and confine your thoughts to your music alone
• Don't use your cell phone! Never text while behind the wheel and if you have to answer an important call use a hands free device
• Always make sure your mirrors are adjusted before you get on the road, never do so while driving
• Be very aware of the road around you and be prepared for anything that may happen: a change of lights, possible accident, merging cars, etc.
• Lastly, have confidence on the road as a driver- fear of accidents can actually be distracting, be a safe and defensive driver and trust your experience

In the event you are in a car accident, contact a lawyer near you for the legal representation you deserve!