Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a serious problem that continues to increase. Reflect on your last driving experience—did you observe other drivers who were distracted, or did you find yourself distracted while driving? Even though most people know distracted driving is dangerous, many drivers still engage in activities that divert their attention from the road. This course will explain what distracted driving is, identify the three main types of distraction when driving, and provide effective solutions to reduce distracted driving.
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Learning Objectives
- Define distracted driving and understand its impact on road safety
- Identify and describe the three main types of distraction when driving: visual, manual, and cognitive
- Explain why distracted driving is risky and its potential consequences.
- Identify strategies to reduce distracted driving, including practical tips for avoiding common distractions
Specs
| Course Level | Intermediate |
| Languages | English |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video |
| Based on: | Industry Standards and Best Practices |
Key Questions
To prevent distracted driving, keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and mind focused on driving. Avoid activities that can divert your attention, such as using your phone or adjusting the radio.
What should you do with your cell phone while driving?To minimize distractions, silence or turn off your phone, or place it in the glove box while driving. This helps prevent distracted driving caused by phone notifications and calls.
How can people be distracted while driving?Distractions while driving can stem from activities inside or outside the vehicle, including texting, talking to passengers, or adjusting controls. Cognitive distractions, such as daydreaming or intense emotions, can also impair driving focus.
What are the three main types of distraction when driving?The three main types of distraction when driving include visual distractions (taking your eyes off the road), manual distractions (taking your hands off the wheel), and cognitive distractions (taking your mind off driving). Understanding these types can help drivers implement better strategies to stay focused.
How can I recognize a distracted driver on the road?Recognizing a distracted driver often involves observing behaviors such as erratic lane changes, inconsistent speed, and a lack of attention to traffic signals. Drivers who frequently check their phones or appear disengaged from their surroundings are also likely to be distracted.
How can distracted driving safety training videos assist in preventing accidents?Distracted driving safety training videos provide visual examples and real-life scenarios that highlight the dangers of distractions behind the wheel. These videos are designed to enhance awareness, illustrate the impact of distractions, and offer actionable strategies to minimize distracted driving.
Sample Video Transcript
Regardless of the type of distraction, the consequences are the same. Distracted driving has been shown to significantly increase crash risk. Common distracted driving crashes include: rear-end, sideswipe, and run-off-road crashes. When you are not fully focused on the driving task, you are more likely to miss warning signs that you may hit another car or run off the road. Let’s examine the risk associated with distracted driving by reviewing an example. As you watch this example, look for the in-vehicle distractions. You should have noticed three potential in-vehicle distractions: the radio, the GPS device, and a cell phone. There was also heavy traffic and signs that may distract you from watching the road ahead. All these distractions may delay your ability to quickly detect the warning signs of slowing traffic. Now, let’s watch the example again to identify when the first warning signs are noticeable. Here you will see the vehicles ahead start to brake. This is your clue to begin slowing down. If you wait until the vehicle directly in front of you begins to brake, you may not be able to stop in time.
Additional Resources
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Distracted Driving – https://www.nhtsa.gov/book/countermeasures-that-work/distracted-driving
- OSHA Motor Vehicle Safety – https://www.osha.gov/motor-vehicle-safety/safety
- FMCSA Distracted Driving – https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/driver-safety/distracted-driving
- OSHA Fact Sheet – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Drivers – https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/ppe-factsheet.pdf
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