5 Common (And 3 Not-So-Common) Distractions for Drivers
A split second is all it takes to become distracted and cause an accident. This is why it’s important for drivers to know common distractions so they can avoid being distracted drivers when tempted. Here are 5 of the most common forms of distracted driving:
- Cell phones: No surprise here. Cell phones continue to be the biggest distraction for drivers. Just put your phone down!
- Your morning coffee: Is your coffee cool enough to drink? Fiddling with your morning coffee can be very dangerous. Reaching for your coffee could cause an accident. It could also burn your lap if you spill it!
- Man’s best friend: Driving with pets in the car can create many different distractions. Things like the dog unexpectantly barking to them moving around freely can easily break your concentration.
- The kids: Kids are another major source of distractions for parents when they are driving. Make sure to keep them entertained when in the car – even if you are only taking a short trip.
- Day dreaming: Thinking about what you are going to have for dinner? Reflecting on that big meeting you had at work today? These cognitive distractions take your focus off the road even if your eyes are on the road. You need to keep your head in the game too!
Other common distracted include: GPS, other passengers, the radio, billboards, and pedestrians.
3 Not So Common Driving Distractions
There are also a number of not so commonly thought of distractions that are major distractions for driver. The following things can also take your eyes off the road:
- Women:That’s right, women are a huge distraction, especially to male drivers. A recent survey revealed that almost 51% of men admitted to being distracted by good looking women when driving. However, women are also guilty of this too, just at a lower percentage. The study also revealed that more than 15% of women admit to being distracted by a good looking man. Learn more about this Distracted Driver Survey.
- You:Ever catch yourself admiring your good looks in the rear view mirror? Have a bad habit of putting on makeup during your morning commute? Just love to look at yourself from time to time? This can wait until you reach your destination.
- Reaching: Most drivers don’t think twice about reaching for something in the glove box, food, or something in the back seat. However, reaching for things is one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving because it can take your eyes of the road, take your mind off of driving, and could cause you to make a sudden movement of your hand on the steering wheel.
Learn More About the Dangers of Distracted Driving
HUB Insurance Hunters Summary on Distracted Driving Laws in Ontario