Forms of Driver Distraction
Driver distraction is such a huge problem on America’s roads because there are so many ways that a driver can be distracted. Most drivers do not even realize that they are distracted themselves, either. They think that they are just doing something quick and harmless, unaware that they are actually dramatically increasing the risk of a traffic collision.
Driver distraction forms that are rampant on the roads include:
- Reading and sending text messages
- Adjusting the radio
- Inputting coordinates in a GPS app
- Eating or drinking
- Looking at billboards
- Chatting with passengers
- Rubbernecking near an accident
- Self-grooming or applying makeup
Texting & Driving is Extremely Dangerous
Out of all the forms of distracted driving, texting behind the wheel is both the most common and one of the worst. Even though texting is a simple action, it has complex consequences on a person’s ability to safely drive. In other words, it is not possible to drive safely while also using a smartphone.
While texting, a motorist engages in three distinct forms of distraction at once:
- Visual: Looking at a smartphone and reading a text is a visual distraction that takes the driver’s eyes off the road.
- Manual: Picking up a smartphone is a manual distraction that takes the driver’s hands off the steering wheel.
- Cognitive: Thinking about a text is a cognitive distraction that takes the driver’s mind off the task of driving.
Furthermore, a cognitive distraction is believed to linger for 30 seconds on average. This means that a driver who reads a text message will be thinking about it for about half a minute, instead of the traffic moving around them. It all adds up to a dangerous behavior that is practically sure to cause a crash.
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