Texting, other distractions could cost you your life
The majority of car crashes involve drivers who were distracted in the seconds leading up to the accident. In Kentucky alone, distracted driving caused 58,000 collisions in 2015. Not surprisingly, younger drivers under the age of 20 are most likely to be responsible for accidents stemming from distracted driving.
There are three main types of driving distractions:
- Visual distractions, which occur when you take your eyes off the road.
- Manual distractions, which occur when you your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive distractions, which occur when you take your mind off what you’re doing.
Although all distractions can endanger a driver’s safety, texting is the most alarming because it involves all three types of distractions.
Since 2015, Kentucky has banned drivers under 18 from using cellphones – including hands-free devices – while the vehicle is in motion. Drivers of all ages are prohibited from texting while on the road.
If you are 18 or older, use good judgment if talking on a cellphone while driving. Tell the caller you may have to end the conversation. Follow these guidelines:
- Position your phone within easy reach.
- Dial numbers while you are not moving.
- Do not engage in stressful or emotional conversations while driving.
Be aware that cellphones are not the only culprits in distracted driving. Other causes include:
- Reaching for an object.
- Using music controls.
- Talking or listening to passengers.
- Reading and/or writing.
- Eating, drinking or smoking.
- Grooming.
- Children and pets.
Next steps:
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