What Are the Most Common Driving Distractions?

Distracted driving is a big problem here in Delaware, and it causes a lot of car accidents every year. In fact, in 2022, one out of every 23 licensed drivers in the state was involved in a traffic crash. It’s crucial to understand the different types of distracted driving to reduce accidents and make the roads safer. If we know what to look out for, we can prevent more crashes from happening.

What is distracted driving?

Distracted driving happens when you’re doing anything that takes your attention away from driving. This can happen in a lot of different ways, and it usually falls into one of three categories:

1. Visual distractions – Taking your eyes off the road
2. Manual distractions – Taking your hands from the wheel
3. Cognitive distractions – Taking your mind off driving

Sometimes, the distractions overlap, making it even more dangerous. For example, texting while driving takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind away from driving. The more types of distractions involved, the more dangerous it is.

Nine most common driving distractions

1. Cell phone use

We’ve all seen people texting or scrolling on their phones while driving. It’s a huge problem and a major cause of accidents. In Delaware, it’s actually illegal to use a handheld device while driving. The fines start at $100 for a first offense, and they go up from there.

2. In-car technology and adjustments

Modern cars have all kinds of tech – GPS, infotainment systems, and more. While these can be super helpful, adjusting them while driving is a serious distraction. If you need to change something, it’s best to set it before you hit the road. Otherwise, you risk taking your focus off the road.

3. Eating and drinking while driving

Eating and drinking behind the wheel is one of those things that seems harmless but can be pretty distracting. If you’re handling food or trying to open a drink, your hands are off the wheel, and your focus is on something other than driving. It’s better to eat before you start driving, or if you really need something, pull over safely.

4. Personal grooming

Maybe it’s tempting to touch up your makeup or shave while you’re stopped at a red light, but personal grooming can easily distract you. It’s best to take care of those things before you leave the house or after you’ve reached your destination.

5. Conversations with passengers

It’s natural to chat with the people in your car, but it can get distracting, especially if the conversation gets heated or requires you to focus on something else. It’s okay to talk with your passengers, but try to keep your focus on the road.

6. External distractions

We’ve all been guilty of “rubbernecking,” where you see something happening outside your car – maybe a crash or something odd on the side of the road – and your attention drifts. This is another visual distraction that can lead to accidents if you’re not careful.

7. Reaching for objects

Looking for something in the glove compartment, trying to grab something from the backseat, or reaching for your drink can cause you to take your hands off the wheel and eyes off the road. Even just a few seconds of distraction can be dangerous.

8. Daydreaming or mental distractions

Sometimes, your mind just drifts, and you can find yourself “zoning out” on a long drive. This is a cognitive distraction, and it’s one of the sneakiest. You might not even realize it’s happening until it’s too late. That’s why staying mentally engaged and focused is so important.

9. Driving while fatigued

Feeling tired behind the wheel is a serious distraction. Fatigue affects your concentration and reaction time, making it just as dangerous as driving under the influence. If you’re tired, pull over and rest, or switch drivers if you can.

What is not considered a driving distraction?

Not every action while driving is a distraction. For example, checking your mirror, being aware of your surroundings, and looking ahead at the road are all important and necessary parts of driving safely. What is not considered a driving distraction is anything that helps you stay aware of your environment and make good decisions on the road.

How to reduce driving distractions

Here are a few practical tips to help minimize distractions and stay safe on the road:

• Use technology wisely: If you need to take a call, use a hands-free device. But even hands-free conversations can be distracting, so it’s better to avoid them if you can.
• Prepare before driving: Set your GPS, adjust your mirrors, and get comfortable before you start driving. This way, you won’t have to mess with the controls while you’re on the road.
• Limit passenger interactions: Let your passengers know when you need to focus. If the weather’s bad or traffic’s heavy, keep conversations to a minimum.
• Take breaks: If you’re driving on a long trip and you start feeling tired, take a break. It’s better to rest and drive safely than to push through fatigue.

How Silverman, McDonald & Friedman Attorneys at Law can help

Distracted driving is a serious issue that contributes to a lot of accidents every year in Delaware. By understanding the most common driving distractions and learning how to avoid them, we can all make the roads safer for ourselves and others. It’s up to all of us to stay focused behind the wheel.

If you’ve been hurt in an accident caused by a distracted driver, Silverman, McDonald & Friedman Attorneys at Law is here to help. We know how life-changing these accidents can be, and we’re ready to fight for you. Our experienced attorneys will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a distracted driving accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help.