DISTRACTED DRIVING

By Connie Hogue, Vice President of Human Resources & Safety

Distracted driving has become a significant issue on roads worldwide, contributing to thousands of accidents, injuries and fatalities each year. Despite increased awareness and stricter regulations, many drivers continue to engage in behaviors that take their attention away from the road. Understanding the risks associated with distracted driving is crucial to encouraging safer driving habits and reducing preventable accidents.

The consequences of distracted driving can be devastating. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of lives are lost each year due to distracted drivingrelated crashes. Even a brief lapse in attention— such as reading a text message—can be fatal.

Distracted Driving Categories

So, what does it mean to drive distracted? Distracted driving can be broken down into three categories: visual, cognitive and manual.

• Visual: Any activity that diverts your eyes from the road, such as using your phone, navigating GPS, adjusting the radio, or reading billboard signs.

• Cognitive: Anything that distracts your mind from driving, including conversing with passengers, daydreaming, experiencing road rage, or being under the influence of alcohol.

• Manual: Any action that removes your hands from the steering wheel, such as texting, eating, drinking or manipulating dashboard controls.

Among these, texting while driving is one of the most dangerous because it involves all three types of distractions. Studies have shown that sending or reading a text message can take a driver's eyes off the road for about five seconds—enough time to cover the length of a football field when traveling at highway speeds.

Prevention

Preventing distracted driving requires a combination of personal responsibility, technology and public awareness. Here are some strategies to reduce distractions and stay focused while driving:

• Put Your Phone Away – Keep your phone out of reach or use "Do Not Disturb" mode to avoid the temptation of checking messages.

• Stay Focused - Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel at all times.

• Plan Ahead – Set up GPS directions, adjust mirrors and select music before taking off in the car.

• Use Hands-Free Technology – If necessary, use voice-activated controls or Bluetooth devices to minimize manual distractions.

• Educate Young Drivers – Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable to distractions. Parents and driving instructors should emphasize the importance of staying focused behind the wheel.

• Encourage Passengers to Help – Passengers can assist with tasks like navigation or handling calls to allow the driver to concentrate on the road.

• Avoid Eating While Driving – If you must eat, pull over to a safe location.

• Lead by Example – Experienced drivers should model good behavior by avoiding distractions and encourage passengers and fellow drivers to adopt safe driving habits.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Take a moment to ask yourself: "Is it worth it?" The answer is indisputably no. Whatever prompts you to divert your attention from driving can wait until you reach your destination.

Let us commit to driving safely not only this month but every time we are behind the wheel. Set aside all distractions and focus on the road.