Driving safely means giving driving your full attention. Anything that diverts a driver’s attention for more than a second can significantly increase the likelihood of a crash.

It is important to act with extreme caution when climbing behind the steering wheel of a vehicle and to stay alert at all times.

To test your concentration as a driver, answer the following questions:

    • Are you always prepared and ready to avoid a car swerving in front of you?
    • How about braking for a pedestrian who suddenly steps into your path?
    • Can you steer safely clear of debris falling from a truck?

Types of distractions

Physical distractions (top ten driver distractions according to the AA Insurance Driver Index Survey 2012 − 2013):

  1. Texting on a mobile phone
  2. Reading a newspaper or magazine
  3. Personal grooming i.e. applying make-up and shaving
  4. Talking on a mobile phone without a hands-free kit
  5. Changing the radio/iPod/MP3 player
  6. Using a GPS or other navigation system
  7. Eating while driving
  8. Children in the car
  9. Talking on a mobile phone with a hands-free kit
  10. Billboards/outdoor advertising and people outside the vehicle.

Mental and emotional distractions:

  1. Strong emotions of anger and grief
  2. Driver tiredness or drowsiness
  3. Arguments and emotional conversations that may lead to further distraction.

Tips for preventing distracted driving

Before you drive:

    • Allow plenty of travel time. This will reduce your stress levels and help with concentration
    • Store loose gear, possessions and other distractions that could roll around in the car
    • Prepare children and pets with everything they need prior to driving. Ensure that your children are comfortable, properly buckled up and occupied
    • Pre-program the route on GPS devices prior to driving. Make adjustments before you start your journey
    • Address vehicle systems like your seats, mirrors, climate controls and sound systems before hitting the road
    • Check traffic conditions ahead of time.

While you’re driving:

    • Put aside your electronic distractions. Do not use cell phones while driving – handheld or hands-free – except in absolute emergencies
    • Never use text messaging, email functions, video games or the Internet with a wireless device
    • Finish dressing and personal grooming at home
    • Snack smart. If possible, eat meals or snacks before or after your trip, not while driving. Avoid messy foods while on the road that can be difficult to manage
    • Stop at safe locations (service stations) to make and receive calls
    • Keep two hands on the wheel for better control and less fatigue
    • Keep your eyes and mind on the road.

Distractions caused by cellular phones and technology

    • Best advice is to avoid using cellular phones when driving
    • When the phone rings, let it ring
    • If you have to make a call on a hands-free cellular phone, ask a passenger to dial or answer the phone for you
    • Keep your calls brief. If you expect such a call to last longer than a few seconds, look out for a suitable spot to pull over
    • Never take notes or jot down numbers while driving
    • Do not allow technology to divert your concentration. Inserting a CD or searching for a radio station poses a much greater risk than glancing at the fuel gauge or speedometer.

 

Sources

www.exchange.aaa.com
www.distracteddriving.caa.ca
www.geico.com
www.arrivealive.co.za