Drivers reminded to keep their eyes on the road

Distracted driving means driving while engaged in activities that divert the driver’s attention from the road. There are three forms of distracted driving: cognitive, visual and manual. Texting, which includes messaging, is considered the most dangerous type of distracted driving because it combines visual, manual and cognitive distraction.

“Driving a vehicle is a very complex task that requires your complete attention,” Rodney Shepherd, Garrison occupational health and safety specialist, said. “It’s important for people to know that their driving habits are putting them at risk. Distracted driving is anything that causes you to take your focus from driving. This can be things as simple as changing the radio station, adjusting the rear-view mirror, eating while driving, or even more seriously, things like texting or performing activities with your phone. Any of these distractions can endanger you, your passengers and others on the road.

“As a defensive driving instructor, part of the curriculum we used for training was understanding the different types of distractions which affect a driver. There are three forms of distracted driving: cognitive (things that cause a driver to take their mind off the driving task), visual (things that take your eyes off the road), and manual (things that cause a driver to take their hands off the steering wheel). The use or manipulation of a cell phone while driving can cause a driver to be faced with all three of these distractions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, ‘using a cell phone while driving creates enormous potential for deaths and injuries on U.S. roads.’ In 2020, 3,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.”

Shepherd said most distractions drivers face can be avoided. However, there are some that are virtually impossible to prevent completely. The way to deal with issues of distracted driving is to learn how to manage them.

He shared some tips to remember:

·       Ask the driver to focus on driving. Reduce distractions for the driver by assisting with navigation or other tasks.

·        Put your phone and other electronics out of reach, such as in the glove box, back seat, or trunk. Mobile communications are linked to a significant increase in distracted driving.

·       As a passenger, speak up if the driver starts texting or talking on their phone. Make safety a priority.

·       Pull over and park safely at a safe location off the road if you need to use your phone to talk or text.

·       Avoid the temptation to use navigation system while you are driving.

·       Schedule a time to eat when you are traveling. It is risky to try to manage eating a meal while operating a vehicle.

·       Before new drivers get their licenses, discuss how taking their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, could cause injury or death.