The key to driving is to ensure that you are always alert and attentive to what is going on around you. Distractions can hinder your ability to have your eyes on the road at all times. As many as 72% of drivers have admitted to multitasking whilst driving.
There are three forms of distracted drivers:
- Visual – These distractions will lead to the drivers’ eyes being taken off the road.
- Manual – These are distractions which cause the driver to take one or both hands off the wheel.
- Cognitive – Similar to visual, but leads to the drivers attention being drawn away.
From eating and drinking behind the wheel, to using a mobile phone whilst driving, the list of distractions a driver can face is ongoing.
Some examples of top distractions whilst driving:
- Mobile phones,
- Food and drink,
- Other passengers,
- General distractions e.g., being tired or listening to loud music,
- Using an external device such as a sat-nav,
- Adjusting controls in the car.
Here are some top tips on avoiding distractions and making sure your next journey is safer:
- If you think you will be tempted to check your phone whilst driving, place it in an area where you cannot easily access it. If there is an emergency where you need to access your mobile, pull over and stop so you can use it in a safe manner.
- Take a break if you’re tired, grab a coffee and ready yourself for the next stage of your journey.
- Eat before you set off on a journey, 35% of drivers have admitted to eating whilst driving. Make sure to leave yourself extra time so you can eat before you begin your journey.
We would love to hear your commitments to a distraction free drive, head over to our socials to let us know what you will be doing.
