Phones are a huge distraction, and it’s killing us (Part 2)
By Michael Harrold
COMMON DISTRACTIONS
While all of the following are common distractions behind the wheel, text messaging is by far the most alarming. It requires significant visual, manual and cognitive focus from the driver – three key things a driver needs to drive safely.
· Texting
· Using a cell phone or smartphone
· Reaching for something
· Eating and Drinking
· Talking to passengers
· Grooming
· Reading, including maps and navigation systems
· Watching a video
· Adjusting a radio, CD player or other controls in a vehicle.
AWARENESS
As important as it is for us to make an effort not to drive distracted, we also need to be aware that others around us – drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians – may be distracted. While you may be able to quickly discern when pedestrians or cyclists are focused on their phones, some behaviors that may tip you off to a distracted driver include:
· Drifting around in the lane or not staying within lane lines
· Changing lanes without signal
· Braking abruptly
· Going slower than surrounding traffic
· Driving faster, then slower again in an erratic pattern
· Failing to respond to street directional signs and signal lights
· Following too closely
DROWSINESS
Finally, distracted driving issues can be compounded by fatigue. More and more our daily demands seem to be impinging on our ability to get required sleep. Sleepiness, without fail, results in cognitive and behavioral changes that can contribute to vehicle crashes, poor work performance, accidents and other long-term physical and mental consequences. Precise counts of crashes caused by drowsy driving are not yet possible.
Be aware of your own distractions, those who are distracted around you and the impact of driving while fatigued.
http://blog.cinfin.com/2017/04/04/distracted-driving-phones-distraction/
Frost Insurance Agency
Holgate Office: 419-264-2051
Napoleon Office: 419-592-4476