You need to be extra careful around a driver who is eating or drinking. This is because they are distracted – they are not paying full attention to driving. Thus, they may make a mistake that can lead to an accident.
Here is how this can happen:
Eyes off the road
A driver may need to take their eyes off the road to unwrap food, reach a container, pick up dropped food or consume food. Drivers drinking from large containers may also have an obstructed view.
In the few seconds that the driver’s eyes are not on the road, they may miss a road sign or traffic signal or not see your brake lights if you are ahead. Accordingly, they may not react as required or fast enough to avert an accident.
Hands off the wheel
Eating forces a driver to use one hand to drive. Besides, some foods require both hands to be consumed. A driver may also be manually distracted when wiping away crumbs or cleaning off sauce that may have dripped on their clothes or car seat.
When a driver takes their hands off the wheel, they have reduced control over the vehicle. Consequently, their reaction time will be slower. If such a driver runs into an unexpected obstruction, they may not have time to hold the steering and maneuver safely.
Mind off driving
Eating can take a driver’s mind off driving. They may be looking at the road with their hands on the wheel, but their focus may be on the food. Such cognitive distraction can reduce the driver’s reaction time.
A driver who is eating may injure you. If this happens, getting adequate information about your legal options can increase the chance you receive fair compensation.