Distracted Driving and Its Effects

Distracted driving is a diversion of a driver’s attention while driving. A distraction can be an object, person, task, or event that is not related to driving. Distractions may cause the driver to become less observant because they put demands on the driver. Driving requires focus and full attention from a driver. Whenever a driver participates in a non-driving activity, this has the potential to distract them from the primary task of driving. Distractions can range from obvious distractions like a crying baby to not so obvious distractions, but just as dangerous, like daydreaming. Distractions can be internal as well as external distractions. Internal distractions are those that are occurring internally within the vehicle. Examples of these include switching radio channels or inserting a CD. External distractions are those that occur outside of the vehicle. Examples of these include attractive people on the street, billboards, or a collision on the side of the road. I have personally seen many drivers performing tasks simultaneously while behind the wheel. I have seen drivers eating, texting, using the GPS, reaching to their backseats and even applying make up. Most drivers try to shift their attention from the distraction and back to the road but what they don’t realize is that things happen very fast on the road and lack of attention, even for a second, can cause a fatal collision. When a driver becomes engaged with another activity while trying to drive at the same time, the driver may not be able to focus on the road and be aware of potential hazards. Driving while distracted allows for various errors including loss of control, irregular speed, and loss of situational awareness. These errors increase the chance of being involved in or causing crashes. Distracted driving not only puts you at risk but also puts others road users at risk as well. The consequences from distracted driving can range from very minor to extremely fatal. A serious cause for concern