Introduction

There are many steps that you can take to avoid distractions while driving. Below are some tips to help you identify different kinds of distractions and how to avoid them, which will keep you and everyone else on New York's public highways safe and sound.

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions are anything that involves taking your eyes off the road.

 

A person driving while looking at their cellphone.

 

This could be reading text messages, checking GPS, looking for something that dropped, reaching for an object out of reach, and many more.

Manual Distractions

Manual distractions are anything that involves taking your hands off the wheel.

 

A person eating a sandwich while driving.

 

This includes things like eating, reaching for an object, adjusting the radio, and texting.

Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions are anything that involves taking your mind off the road.

 

A person driving while staring out of their side window, daydreaming.

 

This includes things like talking on the phone, or daydreaming.

 

Tips for Drivers to Reduce Distracted Driving

  1. Always drive sober.
  2. Let people know you are driving before you leave.
  3. Turn on Do Not Disturb mode or silence notifications on your cell phone
  4. Do not talk or text while driving.
  5. If you must make an important call, pull over to a safe place first.
  6. Plan your route in advance to reduce stress.
  7. Eat and drink before you drive to minimize multi-tasking.
  8. Secure loose items properly so you are not tempted to adjust while driving.
  9. Take regular breaks to combat fatigue.
  10. Stay mentally present to enhance focus.