Distracted driving is one of the biggest causes of car crashes. When distracted drivers are behind the wheel accidents can happen. Staying focused on the road is the best thing you can do to avoid an accident.
While you can control your own decisions, you have no influence over the drivers in other vehicles. Understanding the types of distractions, and how to recognize signs of distracted drivers on the road, can help you avoid a dangerous situation.
What are the 3 types of distraction?
There are actually three different categories of distraction that can put drivers at risk.
- Cognitive: the driver focuses their attention on something other than driving, like daydreaming or road rage
- Manual: the driver’s hands are off the wheel performing another task, like texting or eating
- Visual: the driver has taken their eyes off the road, maybe to rubberneck or check the GPS
How can you spot a distracted driver?
Understanding the three types of distraction can help you identify drivers who are not paying proper attention while they are on the road. If you identify a distracted driver, do your best to leave them plenty of room for unexpected movements or sudden stops. Here are 5 signs to look for:
- A driver who is eating or drinking while behind the wheel
- Erratic changes in speed
- Frequent and unexpected braking
- A driver having animated discussions with other people in the car
- A driver who is looking down instead of forward
By knowing these signs of distracted driving you can take measures to protect yourself from becoming involved in an accident.
