Do distractions while driving cause more collisions?

Yes. Anything that takes your attention away from the task of driving is a distraction. Even a momentary distraction can have serious consequences. In general, driver distraction is considered to be one of the leading causes of traffic collisions.

But driving is normal and safe isn't it?

According to the Workers' Compensation Board of Alberta, a fighter pilot has about 300 items to keep track of during a regular, non-combat mission. In comparison, a driver in rush hour has to keep track of about 3,000 items including traffic lights, other vehicles, passengers, pedestrians, and road conditions.

It is not known how much distraction a driver can "handle" before he or she loses focus. We probably have all seen examples of activities that can distract drivers.

Situational (inside the car):

• eating/drinking/smoking
• reading (including looking at a map, book, etc.)
• applying makeup/shaving
• adjusting radio/cassette/CD/DVD, climate or other controls such as pedals or steering wheel
• moving objects in the vehicle (food containers, insects, etc.)
• talking with other people, especially if the driver turns to face those in the back seat
• using a cellular telephone, CB radio or other communication devices
• using Internet, e-mail, fax, palm pilots, etc.
• using in-vehicle navigation systems
• using night vision systems.

Environmental (outside the car):

• watching a person, animal, object or event outside the vehicle
• weather conditions
• other vehicles.

Psychological (inside you):

• worries or anxieties
• fatigue
• daydreaming.

As you can see, while driving is considered "normal", it is not a risk-free activity!

Should an employer be concerned?

The potential for injury to employees or bystanders, property damage to company or other vehicles, and insurance costs should be a concern for employers no matter what the cause of the distraction was. In the United States, companies themselves have been involved in court cases involving motor vehicle collisions related to cell phone usage because the employer allowed or encouraged employees to conduct business from the car.

What are some 'good' driving tips?

Most importantly, pay attention. Collisions occur because drivers were not aware of the conditions around them. Be aware and know that distractions can come from many sources at any time.

In general:

• Be well rested.
• Do not consume alcohol, drugs, medications or other substances that may affect driving.
• Try not to think about personal or business matters, especially those that are upsetting.

Before leaving:

• Store belongings properly.
• Adjust seat, mirrors, steering wheel, climate controls, etc.
• Select a radio station or have the tape/CD in the player.
• Plan your route, check the map or read the directions.

While driving:

• Pay attention.
• Keep distractions to a minimum (eating, drinking, smoking, adjustment to radio, cell phone use, etc.).
• Be aware of changing driving conditions such as the volume of traffic, weather, etc.
• Do not reach for items that have fallen or shifted unless absolutely necessary and can be done safely.
• Do not write notes while driving and/or talking.

What if I need to use my cell phone?

The best advice is to not use the phone while driving. If you must use the phone while the car is in motion:

• Have a passenger answer or place the call, if possible.
• If you must answer the phone, keep the phone within easy reach.
• Know the location of the buttons on your phone; practice beforehand placing and answering calls without looking at the buttons.
• Use a voice activation program, if available.
• Pre-program commonly used numbers.
• Use a hands-free or speaker option (but remember the conversation itself is still a distraction).
• Have a voice mail option and allow it to pick up messages.
• Dial when stopped for another purpose.
• Pause conversations if driving conditions become hazardous (e.g., rain, snow, construction, heavy traffic).
• Avoid very emotional or stressful conversations.
• Refrain from taking notes or looking up information; ask the person on the other end to make notes for you if necessary.
• Do not make gestures while talking and driving.

Be sure to check your local, provincial, state, or country regulations. Using a cellular telephone is banned in some countries while others require motorists to use hand-free sets. For example, in Newfoundland and Labrador, hand-free units must be used. Check with your local government to see if there are any current regulations specifically written about cellular telephone use while driving. Remember, however, charges (including careless driving) can be placed on a driver who does not make driving their top priority.

Resources

Cell Phones and Driving: Safety Tips
From: Transport Canada

Driving Tips - Using Cellular Telephones and Other Devices
From: Canadian Centre For Occupational Health and Safety

Safe Driving - It's Your Call
From: Canada Safety Council

Working Safely Behind the Wheel
From: Alberta Workers' Compensation Board

Last Modified Date: December 2004