Driving Distractions

Cell Phones

The National Safety Council reports that cell phone use while driving leads to 1.6 million crashes each year. Nearly 390,000 injuries each year, and one of every four accidents in the US, are caused by texting while driving.

Minimize Your Risk

Hands-free devices reduce the risk, but don'd eliminate it. To completely eliminate your risk, don't use mobile devices while driving.

Food and Drink

Eating and drinking increases your chances of getting into a car accident by 80% and 65% of near miss car accidents are caused by distracted drivers who are eating or drinking.

Minimize Your Risk

1. Eat before you leave.
2. Remove the temptation by not bringing food into the car
3. If driving, pick slim containers with easy-open lids for coffee or hot drinks or use a straw for cold drinks.

Cognitive

Interacting with passengers was the top cause of distraction, causing 15% of crashes. Other major issues were looking at something in the car or outsite, singing or dancing, grooming, and reaching for an object.

Minimize Your Risk

1. Listen to calming music or talk radio that won't cause a strong reaction.
2. Remind passengers that your primary focus is driving.