Common Driving Distractions and How to Deal With Them

A driver requires full attention because even the smallest distraction can lead to tragic consequences. Distracted drivers are responsible for thousands of fatalities every year.

Below, explore some of the most common driving distractions and what you can do to avoid them and stay safe on the road.

Being Lost in Thought

Do you remember a time you drove a familiar route, and before you knew it, you were at your destination? And you cannot recall the journey? You are just one of many who have experienced a loss of focus while driving. 62% of all distracted driving accidents result from a driver's mind wandering long enough to lead to a collision.

No matter how well you know the route, you must always be alert when driving. Unexpected events can occur on a routine trip, turning the drive into a painful or fatal one.

Mindfulness is the only surefire way to prevent accidents due to inattention. If you must, remind yourself to be aware of your surroundings whenever you get behind the wheel.

Using Your Cell Phone

Many people still use cell phones to talk or text while driving. Cell phone conversations and driving both require a great deal of concentration. If you try to do both at once, this makes your brain unable to focus, which can result in delayed stop times and failure to see traffic signals.

Even with a hands-free setup, cell phone use while driving requires caution. You can still miss critical visual and audio cues with hands-free technology.

If you can't resist the temptation to answer a phone call or check message notifications, you have ways to keep them at bay. When you drive, set your phone to silent or do not disturb (DND) mode.

If you must use your phone for whatever reason, pull over to a safe place first, even if you need the phone for emergency purposes.

Feeling Fatigued

Fatigue can have a major impact on driving. When you nod off at the wheel, you are no longer aware of what's happening around you. You are unlikely to notice a pedestrian on the road or an unexpected maneuver by a driver and may end up causing an accident.

Aside from the risk you may fall asleep, tired drivers' efforts to combat fatigue may distract them. So, despite your desire to drive home quickly so you can get to sleep, your actions could put you, pedestrians, and other drivers, at risk.

Be sure to get enough sleep before you drive, and if you get sleepy, pull over and take a break or even a nap at your next safe spot.

Supervising Pets or Children

Kids who feel bored or uncomfortable will usually move around or squabble to get your attention. Such behavior can require some level of attentiveness, which can be quite a distraction. 

When you start your drive, ensure your kids are properly buckled in a seat appropriate for their age to minimize the distraction. If the drive is long, give your kids a fun activity to keep their attention so you can keep your eyes on the road. If you need to address any issue immediately, pull off the road to a safe area first.

Driving with pets loose in the car is also not safe. Pets on your lap or loose in the front seat can easily block your view or bump into the steering wheel. If you need to travel with pets, put them in the backseat and secure them to avoid distractions.

Whatever steps you take to avoid distractions, your safety is also dependent on the actions of other drivers. Given that driver distraction poses a risk to motorists, it is negligence. If you are the victim of a distracted driver-caused accident, you need to hold the other party accountable and get compensation for your losses.

Our car accident lawyers can help you file a claim for compensation after a crash. Feel free to contact us today and schedule a free consultation.