Driver distraction

Driving needs your full attention. Driver distraction is a serious road safety issue. Essentially, anything that diverts a driver’s attention for more than two seconds can significantly increase the likelihood of a crash or near-crash.
Distraction occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted away from concentrating on driving, towards competing events, objects or people.
In 2019, driver distraction crashes was a contributing factor in 10 fatal crashes, 133 serious injury crashes and 918 minor injury crashes.

Keeping your mind on the task
Driving requires your complete attention. You need to keep control of your vehicle at the same time as maintaining an awareness of your surroundings and potential hazards.
There are many causes of inattention while driving, including:

• mobile phones
• music devices such as radios, CDs and iPods
• driver information screens and GPS devices
• food and drink
• other passengers
• scenery.

Avoiding driver distraction

• Switch mobile phones OFF when driving. It is illegal to send or receive text messages or calls on hand-held mobile phones while driving.
• Do Not Disturb While Driving mode – If you can’t resist the temptation to use your phone while driving then his feature is available for Apple and Android users. When Do Not Disturb While Driving is activated, it helps you stay focused on the road. Text messages and other notifications are silenced or limited. It takes only a few seconds to activate and it could save your life.
• Make sure your car’s windscreen and mirrors are clean and adjust all of the controls (including radio/stereo) before setting off, or pull over safely to do so.

• If you’re unfamiliar with the route, check on a map before starting the journey or have someone read out directions. If you need to look at the map, safely pull over to the roadside.
• Take regular breaks rather than eating, drinking or smoking while driving.
• Ask passengers to be quiet if you’re having difficulty concentrating.