Distractions: A Common Cause of Accidents and How to Prevent Them

Distracted driving is one of the major causes of accidents in the United States. It rivals speeding and driving under the influence. The National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) data shows that more than 3000 lives are lost annually for this reason. Though mobile phones are commonly blamed, other factors, such as texting, eating, or daydreaming, can also cause catastrophic accidents.

For developing an effective strategy to prevent and stop distraction-related accidents understanding the three categories of distracted driving is important. Distraction is categorized as:

• Visual distractions: Causing you to take your eyes off the road
• Manual distractions: Result in your hands moving off of the steering wheel
• Cognitive distractions: Divert your attention and concentration from driving.

Types of Distractions

Though texting has become a bane for traffic regulators, it is not the only cause of distracted driving. Most common reasons for distractions also include adjusting in-car entertainment systems, using GPS devices, pets, conversations with co-passengers, drinking coffee, and adjusting temperature, which can result in being distracted.

Innocuous activities of daily life can cause a momentary lapse in focus, resulting in a serious crash, as highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consistently. Texting and reading can cause you to take your eyes off the road for about five seconds, and at 55 mph, it’s driving the length of a football field blindly.

Risk Factors and Affected Groups

Teen and new drivers pose a heightened risk due to the higher likelihood of mobile phone use. This age group is particularly at a higher risk of distracted driving mishaps. Adults multi-task, balancing personal tasks, family life, and work life during commutes.

The use of digital technology by commercial drivers such as delivery personnel, truck drivers, and ride-share drivers for navigation and communication is also a high reason for distraction.

Consequences of Distracted Driving

From minor fender benders to fatal collisions, distracted driving can have devastating consequences. The unpredictability of outcomes reflects the unpredictability of being on the road. Distracted drivers have legal consequences to bear, including fines, license suspension, or jail time, matching the severity of the incident concurrent to the physical injury.

Claims due to distracted driving are complicated. The at-fault driver’s premiums skyrocket, and they can be held liable for property damage or personal injury. The victims, on the other hand, are looking at long-term medical care, income loss, and psychological issues.

Prevention Strategies

Education and awareness can help prevent distracted driving. Starting awareness sessions at schools can help. Community organizations can also play a major role in making young drivers aware of the dangers of distracted driving.

Technology can be a bane and a boon. A limited mobile use policy at the workplace and while driving can help. Using apps to block calls and texts while behind the wheel can be fruitful. Additionally use of driver assistance systems to alert when the driver’s focus is moved is available and can be installed. 

However, it is always best to regulate oneself voluntarily and not take your attention away from the road while driving.

Creating a Culture of Responsibility

Stopping distracted driving should be a community effort. Family, friends, and employers can set a good example for youngsters. 

Additionally, co-passengers could help out with navigation tools and devices and behave responsibly by not indulging in small talk while with the driver. Strong laws banning the use of phones while driving should be implemented. If in existence, it should be implemented stringently with strict punishments and severe penalties to underpin the ban.

Conclusion

Distracted driving can be prevented, although it is a prevalent problem. Individuals have to consciously make an effort to reduce distracted driving and drive mindfully with accountability. Understanding the three types of distraction can help, and education, technology, and community support and effort can help to an extent. 

In the end, it is the individual who can make the difference.