How to Avoid Distracted Drivers and How to Keep From Being One
Distracted driving is a relatively new term, although the practice has been around a while. In days gone by, the average driver was distracted by tuning the radio or by a child in the back seat. Now, the main distraction everyone has in their car is their cell phone. And it isn’t just the fact that someone might call while we are driving—there are texts, social media, music, and navigation apps. So many things (too many things) to look at and think about.
Top Three Reasons for a Distracted Driver
For truck drivers, it is strictly forbidden to use a handheld device while on the job and our NTB drivers follow code. But according to End Distracted Driving, there are three types of distracted behavior that are common for all drivers. The biggest nuisance, of course, is the use of handheld devices, but the other two are also dangerous for all drivers on the road.
The three types of distraction involve your hands being somewhere other than the wheel, your eyes being somewhere other than the road, and your mind being somewhere other than on your driving. It’s important for truck drivers to keep alert no matter the driving conditions because it’s not just professional drivers on the road!
Watching Out for Others Who Are Distracted
Texting incorporates all three types of distraction. Hands are being used to hold and type, eyes are on the device, and mind is on reading or writing. This is the most dangerous thing to do and, while we know our drivers are not engaging in this behavior, it is important that they are aware when those they share the road with are because it is far too commonplace to ignore.
Seeing a driver with their head down, a vehicle that drifts from side to side in the lane, and sudden braking are all signs that the driver is busy doing something other than paying attention to the road. One of the biggest hazards besides being initially distracted is the overcorrection when people realize they were distracted! Doing everything to keep yourself from being distracted while driving is a huge piece of the puzzle, but keeping a watchful eye out for signs of a distracted driver and their overcorrections is an important key in preventing accidents, too. As a professional driver, this can make all the difference in not just getting to your destination on time, but getting there safely, too!
Distracted driving is a relatively new term, although the practice has been around a while. In days gone by, the average driver was distracted by tuning the radio or by a child in the back seat. Now, the main distraction everyone has in their car is their cell phone. And it isn’t just the fact that someone might call while we are driving—there are texts, social media, music, and navigation apps. So many things (too many things) to look at and think about.
Top Three Reasons for a Distracted Driver
For truck drivers, it is strictly forbidden to use a handheld device while on the job and our NTB drivers follow code. But according to End Distracted Driving, there are three types of distracted behavior that are common for all drivers. The biggest nuisance, of course, is the use of handheld devices, but the other two are also dangerous for all drivers on the road.
The three types of distraction involve your hands being somewhere other than the wheel, your eyes being somewhere other than the road, and your mind being somewhere other than on your driving. It’s important for truck drivers to keep alert no matter the driving conditions because it’s not just professional drivers on the road!
Watching Out for Others Who Are Distracted
Texting incorporates all three types of distraction. Hands are being used to hold and type, eyes are on the device, and mind is on reading or writing. This is the most dangerous thing to do and, while we know our drivers are not engaging in this behavior, it is important that they are aware when those they share the road with are because it is far too commonplace to ignore.
Seeing a driver with their head down, a vehicle that drifts from side to side in the lane, and sudden braking are all signs that the driver is busy doing something other than paying attention to the road. One of the biggest hazards besides being initially distracted is the overcorrection when people realize they were distracted! Doing everything to keep yourself from being distracted while driving is a huge piece of the puzzle, but keeping a watchful eye out for signs of a distracted driver and their overcorrections is an important key in preventing accidents, too. As a professional driver, this can make all the difference in not just getting to your destination on time, but getting there safely, too!
Summary
At NTB, safety keeps us on the road letting us do what we love doing every day. Our big takeaway here is: Keep your hands on the wheel, keep your eyes on the road, and keep your mind on your driving. But just as important is knowing the signs when others are distracted.
For more on rules for commercial drivers, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has a comprehensive list of facts and laws to follow.
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