Texting is what most people think of when they hear the words “distracted driving.” But there are lots of different kinds of distractions. Some are easy to spot, while for others, drivers sometimes don’t even know they’re doing them. Nevertheless, all of them are dangerous and could cause bad things to happen on the road.
Every year, thousands of people die in car accidents caused by distracted driving. Accidents like these happen very quickly but leave lasting damage. What makes distracted driving so risky is how easily it can happen during simple, everyday tasks. The first thing you can do to stay safe behind the wheel and avoid distractions is to learn about the three main categories of distracted driving.
1. Visual Distractions
When you take your eyes off the road, it’s due to visual distractions. A quick look at a phone or GPS may not seem dangerous, but it is. You might miss stop signs, red lights, or sudden changes in traffic if you take your eyes off the road for a second.
Some common visual distractions are:
- Reading a text or checking your phone for messages
- Looking at GPS directions
- Watching a video or checking the radio display
- Turning to talk to other passengers or look at something outside
A car can go more than 300 feet in five seconds at 55 mph. That’s how long a football field is with one’s eyes off the road. Even a two-second glance can double the chances of a crash. The National Safety Council warns that visual distractions are among the most common causes of deadly crashes. This is why you should always keep your eyes on the road, and if you need to look at something, pull over.
2. Manual Distractions
Anything that makes a driver take their hands off the wheel is a manual distraction. This can make it harder to control the vehicle and take longer to respond in an emergency. A lot of people do these things even though they know they’re dangerous.
Common physical distractions:
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Adjusting the radio, temperature settings, or mirrors
- Reaching for something in a bag or on the floor
- Holding a phone or typing a message
A driver can’t steer properly if one or both hands are off the wheel. Even doing something as simple as getting a coffee cup or adjusting the AC can become dangerous. Try to make all of your adjustments before you drive, and don’t do anything else while you’re on the road.
3. Cognitive Distractions
Conative distractions take the driver’s attention away from the road. It’s often hard to notice these because the driver might look like they are paying attention. Yet, mentally checking out while driving is just as risky as taking your eyes off the road or using only one hand.
Cognitive distractions include:
- Daydreaming or thinking about personal issues
- Talking to passengers or on the phone (even when using hands-free)
- Getting emotional or stressed while driving
- Driving when sleepy, tired, or under the influence
Being tired is a big reason why cars crash. Drivers who are sleepy might not even know they’re not paying attention until it’s too late. Emotional stress or road rage can also make you less aware and delay reaction time. The Sleep Foundation notes that drowsy driving can impair attention, judgment, and reaction times, making it as dangerous as drunk driving. Drivers should avoid emotional distractions and get enough rest before driving.
