Distracted driving is a significant safety hazard on roads worldwide. It involves any activity that diverts attention from driving, increasing the likelihood of a crash. While many people immediately think of cell phone use when they hear “distracted driving,” it encompasses much more than just texting or talking on the phone.
What can distracted driving involve?
Distracted driving falls into three main types:
- Visual distractions: Taking your eyes off the road to look at anything other than the road ahead, such as a GPS device, a billboard, or even the scenery, is a visual distraction.
- Manual distractions: These occur when you take your hands off the steering wheel to do something else, such as adjusting the radio, eating, or handling children or pets in the car.
- Cognitive distractions: These involve taking your mind off driving. This can happen when you’re having an intense conversation (even hands-free), daydreaming, or being overly stressed or fatigued.
A driving distraction may involve any or all of these issues. For example, navigation apps may take the driver’s eyes off the road, adjusting the route may take their hands from the wheel and thinking about the next turn may pull their focus away from the road ahead.
These distractions can significantly increase the risk of a crash. Distracted drivers may drift out of their lane or not notice hazards until it is too late.
What could distract drivers behind the wheel?
Many of the activities people perform while driving could become distractions. For instance, eating and drinking while driving can lead to taking hands off the wheel and eyes off the road. Similarly, adjusting controls such as the music system, seat, or climate settings or setting up a navigation system can divert a driver’s attention.
Drivers may also find distractions in the passenger seat of their car. Engaging in conversations with passengers – particularly if they are emotionally charged or complex – can distract a driver. Unpredictable behavior from dogs or children could become particularly distracting. One survey reported that most toddler parents became distracted due to caring for their child.
Moreover, external distractions like accidents, billboards or people outside the vehicle can draw attention away from driving tasks. Daydreaming could also take drivers mentally away from their vehicle.
While drivers cannot control what happens in other vehicles, remaining aware of the risk of distraction can help them remain engaged and limit the risk of a crash. By remaining alert, drivers can reduce the risks associated with distracted driving and contribute to safer road environments for everyone.