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What is distracted driving? -

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from safe driving. Any non-driving activity increases your risk of crashing.

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There are different types of driving distractions -

There are three types of driving distractions, and any of them can endanger you, your passengers, and others on the road.

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Visual -

Visual distraction is when you take your eyes off the road. This can happen when you look in the mirror to apply makeup, or you focus on texting, for example.

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Manual -

If you take your hands off the wheel, then that's a manual distraction. This is also a dangerous distraction.

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Cognitive -

Cognitive distraction is when you zone out behind the wheel and completely take your mind off driving.

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Scary numbers -

In the US alone, 3,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2020.

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A danger for everyone -

Also in the US, in 2019, about one in five of the people who died in crashes involving a distracted driver were not in vehicles. They were walking or riding their bikes.

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Some groups are more at risk for distracted driving -

Young adults and teen drivers are more at risk. In the US, among fatal crashes involving distracted drivers in 2019, drivers ages 15 to 20 were more distracted than older drivers.

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Tips for avoiding distracted driving -

While there are countless random things that can steal your attention, it's still possible to prevent distraction and drive more safely.

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Put your phone away -

Turning off the phone, or putting it in "do not disturb" mode, can help remove the temptation to check any incoming messages or new notifications.

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Use your phone for emergency situations only -

Remember: while you're driving, your phone should only be used for emergency purposes. Even then, it's best to pull over to make a call.

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Don't multitask -

Anything that occupies your mind or sightlines can be a distraction behind the wheel. Make time to do what you need to before entering your car.

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Avoid eating while driving -

Food spills are actually a major cause of distraction. So make sure you finish breakfast at home, or pull over to have that cheeseburger.

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Don’t be a distraction -

Avoid calling or texting family members and friends when you know they're driving, to avoid distracting them.

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Avoiding reaching -

Resist the urge to reach for your bag or items if they fall while driving.

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Keep kids safe -

Make sure kids are in proper car seats, so you don't have to constantly check if they're safely seated.

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Keep your pet safe, too -

Don't forget to keep your pet secured in their zone in your vehicle. It can also help reduce distractions if pets aren't roaming around the car.

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Pull off the road if you're drowsy -

Drowsiness increases the risk of a crash by nearly four times. If you feel tired, get off the road and don't try to get home faster.

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Set a good example -

Parents can model good behavior for their children by demonstrating attentive driving. Avoid texting, eating, or calling while behind the wheel.

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Plan your route before you go -

Programming your navigation system while you drive can take your eyes off the road. Make sure you pull over or plan in advance.

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Have someone help you with navigation -

If you're a passenger, reduce distractions for the driver by assisting with navigation or other tasks.

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Listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks -

This is a great way to keep your hands on the wheel, while staying entertained. Plus, there's nothing like jamming to your favorite tunes in the car!

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Use apps that help avoid distractions -

You can use apps to help you avoid phone use while driving. Consider trying an app to reduce distractions.

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Use voice commands and hands-free communications, sparingly -

Remember: even if you're using hands-free devices, you can still get distracted. This is largely because of the limitations of the human brain, which simply can't do everything at the same time.

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Set rules of the road -

Consider restricting the number of passengers until your teen, or new driver, gains experience behind the wheel.

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Speak up -

If you're a passenger and see someone texting, or otherwise driving while distracted, say something and let them know that you're uncomfortable. Encourage your children to do the same when they're passengers in a friend’s car.

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Talk to your employer -

Responding to texts or taking calls for work while driving can be dangerous. Encourage your employer to have a distracted driving policy, which includes waiting to take work-related calls and messages until safely parked.

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Keep calm -

Stay calm in stressful situations, and don’t respond to another driver’s road rage. Keep your distance and let the driver go first if that's what they intend to do.

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Identify distracted drivers -

Look out for drivers who are drifting from their lanes, driving at inconsistent speeds, or are involved in any other distracted behaviors. Make sure to keep your distance.

See also: Important traffic safety tips for all

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