Engaging in other activities behind the wheel leads to drivers taking their eyes off the road. Their attention switches constantly between the two activities, thus affecting the quality of both. In a situation where you need split-second reactions, the brain cannot decide which of the two activities is of vital importance, which could result in response times in dangerous situations that are too slow.
A total of 64% of drivers say that they do not want to use their phones while driving, but feel they have to. Furthermore, 62% would prefer it if other road users did not notice them using their phone behind the wheel.
In order to make it easier to avoid other activities that take your eyes off the road:
- think through your route before setting off;
- activate the Do Not Disturb While Driving function on your phone or, if this is not available, download an app that prevents you from using your phone while driving;
- when driving with children, take extra time for breaks to attend to them, if necessary;
- pull over in a safe place or ask your passengers for help using a mobile phone.
Avoid calling family members or colleagues if you know that they might be driving at that particular moment. As an employer, encourage your employees not to answer calls while driving, but to pull over in a safe place when they can in order to call back.
The right to drive is a privilege that comes with responsibilities for yourself and fellow road users. If you’re driving, then drive.
For more details about the survey results, click here.
