Car accidents caused by distracted driving have increased significantly over the past two decades. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,308 people died in the United States due to distracted driving in 2022. Additionally, 424,000 people suffered injuries from such accidents in the same year.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported 226 distracted driving fatalities from 2017 to 2021. During that same period, the Patrol recorded over 64,000 crashes involving one or more drivers who were distracted. These numbers underscore the growing problem of distracted driving and its deadly consequences.
Distracted drivers fall into three categories
Distracted driving is not just about your phone. It involves various activities that take your attention away from the road. Here are the three main distractions:
- Visual: These occur when your eyes wander away from the road. Examples include checking the GPS, reading a text message or checking your reflection in the mirror.
- Manual: These happen when you remove your hands from the steering wheel. Examples include eating, drinking, adjusting the radio or reaching for something in the car.
- Cognitive: These occur when you fail to focus on driving. Examples include daydreaming, having a heated conversation with a passenger or thinking about work or personal issues.
Understanding these categories helps you recognize and avoid activities that could put you and others at risk.
Tips for motorists to avoid distractions
Driving requires your full attention. While some distractions are unavoidable, you can manage them to focus on the road. Here are seven tips from AAA to help you avoid distractions while driving:
- Stay focused: Ensure that nothing diverts your attention. Keep your eyes on the road, use your mirrors and be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists.
- Secure loose items: Store any gear or possessions that could move around the car, preventing the temptation to reach for them while driving.
- Prepare before you leave: Adjust your seat, mirrors and climate controls before you begin your journey. Plan your route and check traffic conditions in advance.
- Get ready at home: Complete any grooming or preparation tasks before you leave, rather than doing them while driving.
- Eat before or after your trip: Avoid eating while driving, especially messy foods that can be difficult to handle.
- Put your phone away: Do not text, check emails, play games or browse social media while driving. If necessary, store your phone out of reach.
- Stop driving: If something else requires your attention, pull over to a safe location before attending to it.
Following these tips can significantly reduce the chances of being involved in a distracted driving accident. Always remember that your primary responsibility when behind the wheel is to drive safely and attentively for yourself and those around you.