Driving is a special skill that requires your full attention to ensure safety for everyone on the road. Unfortunately, distractions are one of the leading causes of car accidents today.
When your attention is diverted from the road, even for a few seconds, you are at risk of causing serious accidents.
And if you happen to be on the receiving end of a distracted driving accident, make sure that you consult a car accident lawyer to guide you on the immediate steps to take.
Here, we’ll share some common ways drivers can get distracted on the road and offer tips to reduce these risks.
Mobile Phone Usage
One of the most rampant distractions for drivers today is the use of mobile phones while driving.
For instance, you may like to text, make a call, or check your notifications while driving. Texting is particularly dangerous because it involves three types of distractions, which are:
- Visual: This means taking your eyes off the road to read a text.
- Manual: When your hands are off the wheel to chat or text.
- Cognitive: Thinking of what to text while your mind is off driving.
Even a short glance at a phone for a split second can lead to devastating consequences. To minimize such risk, you can opt for hands-free devices or put your phones on silent mode.
Eating and Drinking
Some people eat or drink while driving, especially during busy mornings or long trips. It’s not necessarily bad to eat while driving, but holding food, reaching for beverages, or cleaning up spills can take your attention off the road and increase the likelihood of an accident.
Adjusting In-Car Controls
Tuning the radio, adjusting the air conditioning, or using GPS systems can also distract you while driving.
Although these actions may seem minor, they often require you to take your eyes off the road and hands off the wheel. This is why it’s very important to set these controls before you start the journey to help reduce distractions.
Passengers in the Vehicle
The passengers you have in your car while driving can also be a significant source of distraction, especially your kids or pets.
Of course, you may want to converse, argue, or try to manage your child’s behavior, and this can divert your attention.
This is why you should set rules for your passengers to maintain a calm and safe environment inside the vehicle while driving.
Daydreaming or Mental Distractions
Cognitive distractions, such as daydreaming or thinking about your personal problems while driving, can also impair your focus.
For instance, you may be lost in thought and miss traffic signals, road signs, or changes in traffic conditions. Bear in mind that having stable mental health is very crucial for your safe driving.
Looking for Items Inside the Car
You may try to reach for objects, such as a wallet, sunglasses, or documents, while driving, and this can take your eyes off the road. This momentary distraction can result in an accident. To minimize this risk, keep your essentials within easy reach.
