We are well aware of the dangers of texting while driving. However, there are several other things that distract us when we are behind the wheel.
Therefore, as part of distracted driving awareness, here are other common causes of distracted driving:
Electronic devices
Engaging in activities such as browsing social media, adjusting navigation systems, changing music playlists or watching videos on electronic devices can result in cognitive, visual and manual distractions that can compromise a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Eating and drinking
Consuming food or beverages while driving may seem like an innocent activity. Still, it can take your eyes off the road and impair your ability to handle the steering wheel safely.
Grooming
Applying makeup, brushing hair or shaving while driving can divert your attention from the road, and increase the likelihood of collisions.
Interacting with passengers
Conversations with passengers, attending to children or pets in the vehicle or turning to look at backseat occupants can lead to cognitive distractions and increase the risk of accidents.
Daydreaming and mind wandering
Mental distractions, such as daydreaming or zoning out while driving, can impair situational awareness, decision-making and response times.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving resulted in 3,522 fatalities in 2021. Removing your eyes from the road for five seconds while driving at 55 MPH is equivalent to driving the entire length of a football field with your eyes closed.
To combat distracted driving and foster safer road environments, drivers can adopt the following practices:
- Minimize distractions by focusing on driving, securing electronic devices and avoiding multitasking activities while behind the wheel.
- Utilize hands-free features for phone calls, navigation systems or music controls to reduce manual distractions and prioritize safe driving.
- If necessary, pull over to a safe location to address urgent matters, respond to messages or engage in activities that require your full attention.
Our roads are more dangerous than ever due to people driving while distracted. It’s crucial to understand that, in addition to texting, there are a wide range of behaviors that jeopardize lives. We are all responsible for driving responsibly and contributing to safer roads.
