Distracted Driving Comes in Many Forms
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,166 lives were lost due to distracted driving in 2017. The Centers for Disease Control identify three types of distracted driving: cognitive, manual, and visual. Cognitive distraction refers to thinking about things other than driving; manual distractions cause a driver to remove one or both hands from the steering wheel; and visual distractions cause drivers to look away from the road.Texting While Driving
There is no way that anyone who texts or manually dials a cell phone while driving can give full attention to operating the vehicle. Texting becomes a visual distraction as the driver takes his or her eyes off the road. This is true whether the motorist uses one or both hands to text. When individuals feel the need to text and drive, obviously their minds are not on driving. Texting while driving is said to be one of the most dangerous distractions because it's possible to drive a distance that is the length of a football field during the time it takes to read or send a text message.Eating While Driving
It's not unusual for busy people to eat or drink while driving. Eating or drinking during driving requires removing at least one hand from the steering wheel and looking away from the road, so is very dangerous.Talking While Driving
Excessive talking or arguing during driving creates a cognitive distraction. A driver who is deeply engaged in conversation may find it difficult to keep his or her mind on the road. Similarly, talking on the phone while using a hands-free option can distract a driver.Driving When Tired
A driver who has been on the road for several hours or someone tired before taking the wheel can experience physical and mental fatigue. Being tired impacts good decision-making during driving as well as reaction time. An exhausted driver may doze or nap, which can easily lead to a serious accident.
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