When driving a car, many distractions constantly bombard us, ranging from music to cell phones and much more. Read on and learn more about what distracts us while driving and tips on how to address these issues. 1
What does ‘distraction’ mean?
The Oxford dictionary defines distraction as “a thing that takes your attention away from what you are doing…”. That is precisely what distracted driving is all about – something is taking away your concentration and focus on the road ahead. 1
Texting while driving is public enemy number one
Texting while driving has become a worldwide challenge. Texting refers to typing in a message or receiving a message on your phone. Reading or sending a text means you take your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. Let’s explore what impact this has. 1
What distance on the road do you cover in 5 seconds?
If you are driving at 60 km/hour while texting for 5 seconds, your car travelled ‘driverless’ for 83 metres (the length of a rugby field is 100 metres). At 100 km/hour, the distance covered in 5 seconds is 139 meters (the length of almost two Jumbo jets). The undeniable fact is that so much can happen on the road when covering such distances and so it’s important to remain focused on the road at all times. 1
Does texting cause more accidents?
Holding your cell phone while driving is illegal in South Africa, regardless of whether or not you’re using it to make a call or text. You may be proudly informing others that you don’t drink and drive. But if you are a texter, the chances of you having an accident exceed that of a drunk driver. That fact certainly makes you think. 1
Other than mobile phones, there are other distractions for drivers. Let’s find out more as we talk about the four different classes of distracted driving. 1
Visual distraction
This occurs when you take your eyes off the road by adjusting your radio, changing the air conditioner or activities such as looking for some sweets in the cubby hole. 1
Manual distraction
This distraction happens when you take your hands off the steering wheel in traffic by eating, putting on make-up, shaving, and even cleaning your teeth! 1
Hearing distraction
Most of us have heard loud, thumping music coming from other cars., So loud that it’s practically bouncing the car. It’s understandable then that it’s really difficult to concentrate on driving while listening to music at such a high volume. 1
Your mind is not at home
Driving long distances on holiday with little sleep the night before is asking for problems. The mind or brain can be so tired that it can switch off, resulting in you falling asleep at the wheel even with your eyes open. Daydreaming about something also causes you to lose focus on your driving. 1
Texting while stationary
You’ve stopped at a traffic light and you start texting. The car is not moving and you may think that there is little to no danger in this situation. But you may be vulnerable to a smash-and-grab with criminals taking advantage of your lack of awareness. 1
So, what is the answer? Follow the saying, ‘Prevention is better than cure.’ 1
Leave your cell phone alone
The tyranny of urgency demands that you pick up the cell phone immediately for any call or message. It would be best to resist that. 1
Do all the adjusting before you drive
Adjust the radio, air conditioner, and GPS before you drive off. If something falls off the seat, leave it on the floor until later unless it gets in the way of your foot pedals – in which case you should pull over as quickly and safely as possible. 1
Never take your hands off the wheel
If you suddenly need to swerve, you’ll need both hands. So, leave all the eating and drinking refreshments till later. Before you go, remember take off a jacket if it will make you too hot. 1
Minimise distraction by passengers
Strap in the children correctly and avoid deep discussions that could distract you. 1
Can you hear what’s happening outside your car?
Avoid playing loud music inside the car because you may miss hearing someone hooting at you to warn you about something. 1
Avoid tailgating
Always keep a safe following distance from the car in front of you to prevent you crashing into its rear end should it suddenly stop. 1
Disclaimer
This article is meant to show you how to avoid any distractions while driving and so improve road safety. 1
Distracted drivers pose a threat to other motorists and increase the risk of having an accident. For this reason, make sure your car cover is adequate. If you are unsure and require more information, please connect with us at PMD and tap into our world-class expertise. We’ll be glad to assist you and show you our affordable car insurance products with unique benefits like fixed premiums* and a reduce-to-zero excess*. T’s and C’s apply.