Leading Causes of Distracted Driving

As you probably already know, distracted driving is one of the most common causes of the hundreds of accidents that occur each day. Distracted driving keeps your focus on something else rather than keeping yourself and others safe by paying attention to the road. If you are a responsible driver, you never want to be distracted by gadgets, objects, etc. that will reduce your focus on the road ahead.

The most crucial thing that you can do to prevent yourself from being distracted while driving is to realize what some of the most common reckless behaviors behind the wheel are. Once you’re aware of what the causes are, you’ll be more able to prevent it from happening or stop it when it does happen. You will also be able to analyze your own behavior and avoid putting yourself or others in the vehicle in unnecessary risk.

Phone Use

Phone use is one of the most common reasons for drivers being distracted. We have become very connected through the use of electronics, but you should never prioritize it over driving and keeping your car safe. 

Adjusting Car Controls

You might be thinking that it’s more important than anything to get the perfect climate inside your car. It’s actually one of the more common reasons that cars become unsafe when traveling at high speeds. You can wait to adjust your car controls until your car comes to a stop.

Makeup/Hair

Many people try applying makeup or fixing their hair while driving, but it’s a deadly act when driving in a car. You endanger not only yourself but others as well while doing this. 

Talking

If you have others in the car, you can easily be distracted by talking and interacting with them. Be sure to always keep your eyes on the road if you are going to have a conversation with other passengers.

Lack of Concentration

If you have a lot of things going on or have a lot on your mind, you might find it difficult to concentrate on driving. If this happens to you, it is best to try and stay focused on driving as much as possible and not let personal matters pull your attention from driving safely.

Children & Pets

Children and pets can cause quite a commotion in the back seat. If this is happening, it is causing danger to yourself, your passengers, and others on the road. Dealing with them can easily distract you from what you’re supposed to be doing.

Fatigue

If you have had a lot of late nights or have worked a long day, then fatigue can play a very real role in your distracted driving. The more tired you are, the less focus you have on driving. Your reaction time to unexpected objects while driving also diminishes. If you ever find yourself in this type of situation, it is important to pull into the nearest rest stop and recharge yourself (coffee, cold water, brief nap/rest, etc.).

Now that we all know what can distract people while they are driving, you can help to prevent yourself from becoming one of the causes of distracted driving. It is of utmost importance to keep your eyes and complete focus on driving. All other matters (such as gadgets, radio, distracting passengers, etc.) can wait until you arrive to your destination or at the very least wait until you pull into a rest stop. Stay safe out there on the road and always be fully aware of other drivers around you.