How To Avoid The Dangers Of Distracted Driving

We have collated the primary dangers associated with distracted driving, including a couple of legal cases from Australia and New Zealand, and we offer practical strategies to mitigate these risks. Whether you are a fleet manager, business owner or a parent; or you're a logging truck driver with 30 years' experience or a student on their learner licence, it's worth your time to review these driving risks and the 10 practical steps we offer to help keep you and others safe on the road.

As defined by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) distracted driving involves "driving while engaging in other activities that draw the driver’s attention away from the road". The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) says a driver's attention can be captured by "competing events, objects or people." The AAA notes 16% of serious road crashes in Australia are due to driver distraction, while the NZTA says 8% of fatal crashes in NZ are due to drivers not paying attention.

Distractions can be categorized into three main types:

1. Visual Distractions: Taking your eyes off the road.
2. Manual Distractions: Removing your hands from the steering wheel.
3. Cognitive Distractions: Diverting your mind from driving.

Common sources of distraction while driving include mobile phones, navigation systems, eating or drinking, and interacting with passengers, pedestrians or animals. Engaging in distracting activities while driving significantly increases the likelihood of accidents and the three most significant dangers are:

• Delayed Reaction Times: Distractions slow down a driver's ability to respond to sudden changes, such as a pedestrian crossing, an obstruction like a branch or pothole on the road, or abrupt stops by other vehicles.
• Impaired Judgment: A distracted driver may misjudge distances, speeds, or fail to interpret road signs correctly.
• Increased Risk of Collisions: Taking attention away from driving greatly increases the chance of veering into another lane, missing traffic signals, or rear-ending another vehicle.

Several legal cases in New Zealand and Australia underscore the severe repercussions of distracted driving:

In a 3-month period at the end of 2024, South Australia’s five mobile phone detection camera sites screened more than 14 million vehicles, and from this over 28,000 people were caught using their phones while driving. One driver was fined over $27,000 and had his license suspended after being caught more than 40 times using his mobile phone while driving. 

In New Zealand earlier in 2024, a distracted truck driver was charged and sent to prison after causing a fatal crash.  Investigations found that in the two hours of driving prior to the accident, she had spent 44 minutes on her phone and was not looking when she drove her 30-tonne truck and trailer into the back of a car waiting in an on-ramp queue.

The risk of tragedies and penalties can easily be reduced by drivers, fleet managers and business owners applying common sense habits and procedures.

10 Practical Steps to Avoid Distracted Driving

Mitigating the risks associated with distracted driving requires conscious effort whether they are company policies or sound habits instilled by parents and mentors. These simple actionable strategies will help you maintain focus on the road:

1. Turn Off Mobile Devices - Mobile phones are a primary source of distraction.
   
   • Action: Switch off your phone or set it to 'Do Not Disturb' mode before starting your journey. This prevents incoming calls or messages from diverting your attention. 
2. Plan Your Route in Advance - Fiddling with navigation systems can take your eyes and mind off the road.
   
   • Action: Input your destination into your GPS before departing. If adjustments are needed, pull over safely before making changes. Some vehicles now don't let a driver use the navigation unless the vehicle is stationary. 
3. Avoid Eating and Drinking While Driving - Handling food or beverages requires manual and visual attention.
   
   • Action: Eat meals or snacks before or after your trip. If necessary, stop at a safe location to consume food or drinks, this also gives a chance to stretch and take a break.
4. Manage In-Car Technologies - Adjusting radios, climate controls, or other in-car systems can be distracting.
   
   • Action: Set your preferred settings before driving. Become familiar with your steering wheel controls before you start a journey, and utilize voice commands to minimize manual interactions.
5. Educate Passengers - Passengers, especially children, can inadvertently cause distractions.
   
   • Action: Communicate the importance of focused driving to passengers, especially younger ones. Encourage them to avoid unnecessary conversations or sudden movements that might divert your attention. This can be a challenge for new drivers when taking their friends.
6. Secure Loose Items - Objects moving or falling in the car can startle drivers.
   
   • Action: Ensure all items are properly stored or secured before driving to prevent them from shifting during transit.
7. Avoid Driving When Emotionally Distressed - Strong emotions can impair concentration and decision-making.
   
   • Action: If you're experiencing intense emotions, take time to calm down before getting behind the wheel. This can be another issue particularly for younger drivers where at times a parent, friend or caregiver might need to step in.
8. Utilize Technology Wisely - While some technologies can be distracting, others can enhance safety.
   
   • Action: Research and use apps or features that block incoming notifications while driving. Some smartphones offer driving modes that limit distractions. Employers should also investigate options for their staff.
9. Stay Informed About Local Laws - Understanding traffic laws helps avoid legal repercussions.
   
   • Action: Regularly update yourself on the driving regulations in the area you are driving, especially a new state or city, as laws regarding distracted driving are evolving.
10. Lead by Example - Demonstrating attentive driving encourages others to do the same.
    
    • Action: Commit to distraction-free driving and discuss it with passengers and colleagues, whether you are a parent modelling responsible habits, or a mentor coaching a new employee.

Another great option is to utilise cost effective online driver training that includes modules such as distractions, driver fatigue and emergency stopping. There really is no excuse for driving while distracted, and you can make an immediate change by applying the above simple best practices and investing in driver training.

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