As recently as two decades ago, many drivers never would have imagined answering phone calls through their automobiles or spending time at stoplights strolling through their social media feeds. But such is the reality for modern drivers, who must now contend with myriad distractions while behind the wheel.
Distracted driving now poses a significant threat to drivers, their passengers and pedestrians. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving was responsible for the deaths of more than 3,100 people in the United States in 2019. Data from Transport Canada’s National Collision Database indicates that distracted driving contributes to an estimated 21 percent of fatal collisions in Canada.
A growing reliance on smartphones to do everything from play music to provide driving directions to check work emails has made it harder than ever for drivers to ignore their devices. Though the temptation to pick up the phone may prove hard for motorists to overcome, the following are some strategies they can embrace en route to becoming safer, less distracted drivers.
· Support legislation that polices distracted driving. Many community leaders have attempted to curb distracted driving by introducing legislation designed to penalize drivers who are caught with their eyes on their devices and not on the road. The National Conference of State Legislatures reports that there are currently 24 states that prohibit drivers from using handheld cellphones while driving. Such laws are effective. In fact, a 2010 study published in the journal Traffic Injury Prevention found that driver handheld phone use was estimated to be 24 to 76 percent lower up to seven years after handheld phone bans took effect in Connecticut, the District of Columbia and New York. Such figures indicate the far-reaching impact of legislating against distracted driving and underscores the importance of supporting such legislation.
· Lead by example. A recent study from AAA found that electronics use is the leading source of distraction for teenage drivers. Parents can set a positive example for their children by turning their notifications off when they get behind the wheel so they aren’t tempted to respond to an alert or incoming message. If necessary, parents can place their phones in the glove compartment prior to starting their vehicles. Setting such an example increases the likelihood that kids recognize the dangers of combining driving and devices.
· Recognize devices aren’t the only distractions. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety notes that devices alone don’t tell the story of distracted driving. Drivers can easily become distracted by adjusting a radio, eating and drinking while behind the wheel, grooming, and interacting with passengers. Drivers must not discount the impact that all of their behaviors can have on their ability to pay attention behind the wheel. When driving, stick to driving. If drivers need to do anything else, like take a sip of water, eat lunch or adjust their car stereos, they should do so only after pulling off the road and putting their vehicles in park.
Distracted driving poses a significant threat to anyone on the road. But it’s a threat that can be eliminated entirely when drivers are motivated to do so.
