Delaware drivers like you know that driver distraction has the potential to put you in harm’s way. But do you know what constitutes distracted driving? Do you understand what actions and behaviors may endanger your life?
You can divide driver distractions into three categories. Almost any action or behavior can fall into at least one of the three. This allows you to identify dangers with greater ease.
Three categories of driver distraction
The National Safety Council takes a look at different forms of driver distraction. The three categories include visual distractions, cognitive distractions and physical distractions. Physical distractions will remove your hands from the steering wheel. You may not even consider some of these actions as distractions. They can include changing the temperature or radio station. Eating or drinking also fall under this category. So does picking up something dropped on the ground.
Visual distractions will draw your eyes from the road. These distractions may exist inside or outside of your vehicle. For example, you might look into your backseat to check on a child or pet. You may end up distracted by an attraction or accident that you drive past.
Dangers in cognitive distractions
Cognitive distractions make up the largest category. This includes anything that takes your mind off of the task at hand. Anything that mentally distracts you from driving counts. This can include thinking of where you are going or where you came from. It can include trying to make plans for your next meal. It can include thinking about the song playing on the radio. It also includes focusing on conversations with passengers. Everyone engages in these activities, when they can pose a danger to you.