Distracted driving is a sadly one of the most common causes of automobile accidents these days. Considering the easy access we have to smartphones, touchscreens, it’s doesn’t take much to lose focus while driving. That said, it’s good to know that most distractions are avoidable. Getting to know the various types of distracted driving, can help you make better decisions and move towards safer driving.

In this article we’ll outline the types of distracted driving and how you can act to prevent them.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving includes any person, object, event, or thing that takes your attention away from the road. This means that even a quick look at your phone or a brief interlude of daydreaming can be considered a danger to your safety. Driving safe demands your full, undivided attention at all times.

Three Types of Distracted Driving

When it comes to the different types of distractions while driving, there are three main categories:

Visual distractions:

When something in your visual plane causes you to look away from the road. Common examples include checking your phone, looking at a GPS, or turning to look at passengers. Even a few seconds can be enough to miss something important.

Manual distractions:

This is when your hands come off the steering wheel for any reason. This includes actions like eating, drinking, turning up the volume or temperature, or even leaning over to grab something from the glove box. Even this momentary distraction and loss of control can be a risk.

Cognitive distractions:

This happens when your mind is busy somewhere other than driving. I could be thoughts about work, your next meal, a conversation with your passenger, or even just feeling anxious or tired. Even when your eyes are on the road, your brain needs to work to remain fully alert.

The Danger of Distracted Driving

When a person is distracted, their reaction time is a lot slower than it should be. It’s possible to miss the signs of a sudden stop, of changes in traffic, or hazards ahead. Even a few seconds of without paying attention can result in an accident. Staying alert and aware helps you maintain better response times and make better decisions.

5 Tips for Staying Safe While Driving

1. Take a Break from Your Phone

Put all notifications on silent, or better yet, or keep your phone out of reach while driving. If you need GPS, set it up before you start moving.

2. Don’t Multitask

Avoid eating, shaving, putting on sunscreen, or changing settings while you drive. Try to get things done before you drive…or after…not while the car is in motion.

3. Save the Conversation for Later

Even a casual convo can distract from your focus on the road. Try to keep conversations to a minimum while driving.

4. Take a Break

If you’re starting to get tired, do yourself a favor and take a break. Tired driving can be just as harmful as other distractions. Find a safe place – like a rest stop – and take the opportunity to hydrate, stretch, and rest.

4. Get Help

If you’ve got a passenger with you, ask them to help by sharing the driving, acting as navigator, or keeping the noise down – whichever solution is apropos to you.

Conclusion

While distracted driving is a serious issue, it is highly preventable. By focusing your attention on the road, your hands on the wheel, and your mind on driving, you can significantly decrease any risk while also helping keep others safe. These little shifts in your habit can add up to a big difference each time you drive.