Driving while distracted has become a major safety hazard on roads, with potentially disastrous consequences for drivers, passengers, and bystanders. In addition to personal injury or death resulting from such accidents, economic losses due to medical bills, repair costs, and decreased productivity can be substantial. Accidents are likely to occur when motorists engage in activities that divert their attention away from the primary task of driving. These distractions can be categorized into three main types: visual, manual, and cognitive. We have outlined the most common causes ofdistracted driving related accidents below.
Texting and using mobile devices
Whenever a driver looks away from the road to read or send a text, they are taking their focus off driving and putting it on the device instead. This type of distraction can be particularly dangerous, as it requires all three types of focus. Visuals such as looking away from the road. Manual, holding and operating the device. The last one is cognitive which means thinking about what to write or say. Various States have passed legislation to limit the use of mobile devices while driving, except when hands-free technology is utilized.
Eating or drinking
Although it might not seem like a major distraction, eating and drinking behind the wheel can be just as dangerous. Even something as simple as sipping coffee or unwrapping a snack can take the driver’s focus away from the task at hand. This can lead to slower reaction time and decreased awareness of surroundings. Which is all the more dangerous when driving at high speeds. So it’s always best to wait on eating a snack or taking a sip until you are fully stopped or parked.
Talking to passengers
While talking with a passenger can be an enjoyable part of any road trip, it can also be distracting. Additionally, passengers may be more likely to engage in distracting activities such as turning up the radio or trying to locate objects within the car. These distractions may seem minor but they can have deadly consequences. Essentially, it’s best to keep conversations to a minimum and limit any non-essential activities while driving. Wait to turn up the radio or have that engaging conversation once you know it’s safe to do so.
Daydreaming & Fatigue
It’s common for drivers to mentally drift or become fatigued when driving for long periods. Unfortunately, this can easily turn into a safety hazard, as they may not be aware of their surroundings and could even fall asleep at the wheel. Whereas it may not be entirely possible to eliminate cognitive distractions, it is important to stay alert and be conscious of one’s mental state while driving. If you need to pull over because you are starting to drift off, do so safely. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings when you are behind the wheel.
External distractions
Other drivers, pedestrians, animals, and events happening outside the car can easily distract motorists from the road. Drivers are often tempted to look outside for longer than necessary, which can potentially lead to serious accidents. Drivers can avoid becoming distracted by external events by keeping their gaze on the road and only looking away briefly and when necessary. It’s hard to control what is going on outside of the vehicle. But knowing that you need to pay attention at all times can save your life.
Conclusion
It is important to be aware of the potential dangers of driving while distracted, as well as the legal and financial repercussions. Motorists should be mindful of the three types of distractions and should make every attempt to limit any activities that divert their focus on the road. This includes avoiding the use of mobile devices, limiting conversations with passengers, and staying alert to external distractions. Having this knowledge will help you to be aware of your driving. It’s best to have all the right information to avoid any accidents in the future.
