Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. Distractions can be visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking your hands off the wheel), or cognitive (taking your mind off the task of driving). Some common examples of distracted driving include:
- Texting or using a cell phone while driving
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Adjusting the radio or other in-vehicle technology
- Applying makeup or grooming while driving
- Talking to passengers or interacting with children in the back seat
- Using a GPS or other navigation device
Distracted driving is a serious safety hazard and can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving was a factor in 9% of all fatal crashes and 16% of injury crashes in 2020.
To reduce the risk of distracted driving, it is important to minimize distractions while driving and to focus on the task of driving. This may include putting away your cell phone, avoiding eating or drinking while driving, and setting up your GPS or other navigation device before starting your trip.
