People largely acknowledge that texting while driving is dangerous. However, it is very difficult for most people to fully disconnect from digital technology. In a world of instant gratification and constant communication, ignoring emails and text messages can be anxiety-inducing.
Drivers can end up intensely mentally distracted by incoming message alerts on their phones even if they don’t actually read and respond to messages. Of course, most people don’t want to ignore messages whenever they are in their cars. They may have established a workaround.
Both of the techniques described below are common workarounds for texting while driving. Some people may think that using workaround techniques are safer than physically handling a phone. However, research shows that there is typically no safe way to review and respond to text messages while driving.
What are the systems people use?
There are two main ways that people try to remain connected to others without actively texting while driving. The first involves waiting until they reach a red light to check their messages. Many people think that if they handle their phones after stopping their vehicles, then they don’t have to worry about a ticket or about causing a crash.
Unfortunately, data gathered by researchers proves that this tactic is not as safe as people expect. People are not machines that can instantly shift gears via mechanical controls. The brain takes time to adjust to new information and tasks.
Drivers usually remain mentally distracted for roughly 27 seconds after they stop interacting with a mobile device. Even if they set their phone down well before the light turns green again, they may still be distracted later when they proceed through the intersection.
Many drivers try to avoid physically handling their phones by using talk-to-text software. That may seem like a safe option, but it is not. People generally find talk-to-text software as distracting, if not more distracting, than handling a phone directly. People are aware of the likelihood of dictation errors and may glance at their phones quite frequently to check for mistakes when using talk-to-text software.
The best way to avoid causing a distraction-related crash is to completely silence all notification sounds while driving and to turn off vibrations as well. Doing so helps eliminate the cognitive distraction associated with mobile phone use while driving.
Those involved in distracted driving crashes caused by others may have grounds for insurance claims or even personal injury lawsuits. Holding other drivers accountable for unsafe practices often requires an understanding of the law and may require legal assistance.