Top 10 Driving Distractions: What to Avoid to Stay Safe

These are some of the most dangerous things that you can do whilst driving, and why you should avoid them.

Each second you're distracted behind the wheel raises your risk of an accident, yet drivers often get sidetracked by common, everyday tasks. A recent study in Germany highlights the most frequent distractions and their impact on road safety:

• Phone Use - Texting, calls, and notifications are among the top distractions. Even a brief glance away from the road increases your accident risk significantly.
• Eating and Drinking - Grabbing a coffee or snack on the go might seem convenient, but spilled drinks or dropped food are frequent causes of distraction.
• In-Car Technology - Modern cars come with touchscreens, infotainment systems, and other tech that can pull focus. Set up GPS, playlists, and preferences before you hit the road.
• Talking with Passengers - Emotional conversations or even casual chats can cause you to look away from the road or lose focus on driving.
• Children and Pets - Kids and animals can be unpredictable and distracting. Sudden noises or movements lead drivers to check on them instead of focusing on the road.
• Grooming - Activities like applying makeup or adjusting hair are better done before or after the drive, not while behind the wheel.

• GPS and Maps - Checking Google Maps on the go is a quick way to get distracted. Enter your route ahead of time and enable audio directions.
• Changing Music or Radio Stations - Scrolling through playlists, stations, or even adjusting volume can divert your attention. Set everything before you start driving or use voice controls when possible.
• Smoking - Lighting a cigarette, flicking ash, or handling a dropped cigarette diverts attention from the road more than you might realize.
• Reaching for Items - Whether it's a bag, sunglasses, or your wallet, grabbing items while driving is dangerous. Keep what you need within easy reach before you start your trip.

To stay safe and focused as you are driving, make sure to set up in car systems and tech before you start driving. Avoid using your phone, and pull over if you need to eat or drink. Secure children and pets properly and, if you have to adjust something, wait until you're safely parked. Staying fully attentive not only protects you but also helps keep everyone else on the road safe.