In And Out Traffic School Online

What Is Distracted Driving? A Serious Risk on the Road

Any action that pulls your focus from driving—even for a second—is distracted driving. Texting, phone calls, tuning the radio, or zoning out can all lead to crashes. While some distractions seem harmless, taking your eyes or mind off the road for even a few seconds can lead to devastating consequences.

There are three main types of distractions: visual, manual and cognitive. The visual is taking your eyes off the road. Manual distraction is anything that takes your hands off the wheel. Lastly, taking your mind off driving is a cognitive distraction.

Texting while driving is a type of visual, manual, and cognitive distraction. In California, using a handheld phone while driving is illegal, and texting is strictly prohibited. Law enforcement takes distracted driving seriously due to its link to thousands of crashes every year.

How can you prevent distracted driving?

• Put your phone on "Do Not Disturb" before you start driving.
• Set your GPS and music playlist before you hit the road.
• If something requires your attention, pull over safely.

Driving needs you to be fully focused. Protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road by eliminating distractions every time you get behind the wheel.

For more distracted driving information: https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving