Distracted Driving Awareness Tips
Modern gadgets can cause a lot of different distractions when they are used in a vehicle. Drivers need to take responsibility in handling digital devices while being behind the wheel. It is important to let any passengers handle electronic devices that may be distracting to the driver. For example, a GPS navigation system should be managed by the front passenger while still being within the line of sight of the driver. A passenger in the front cabin may also answer a driver’s mobile phone. If privacy is an issue, the phone should just be set on vibrate mode or driving mode.
Digital safety features in a new car might actually be counterproductive in some instances. Drivers sometimes rely too much on high-tech sensors and other feedback. The truth is that sudden alerts might actually startle you and lead to sudden maneuvers that are quite dangerous. For example, a lane departure alarm may cause you to swerve back into your lane in a swift maneuver that can be out of control. While they are helpful, electronic safety systems should be combined with traditional practices such as looking over the shoulder and observing all mirrors.
When a driver is alone in the car, Bluetooth technology does not significantly reduce the risk of an accident if mobile gadgets are used. Some people fail to realize that hands-free devices might still be very distracting. While talking on a mobile phone set in Bluetooth mode, getting lost in the conversation is a real concern for anyone operating a motor vehicle. A person’s peripheral vision becomes partially diminished when he or she focuses on a chat. The human brain simply cannot multitask as some people would want to believe. In the case of driving, multitasking comes with a major risk with some potentially dire consequences.
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