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Hands Free Tennessee

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is the act of driving while engaged in activities that divert the driver’s attention away from the road. There are three forms of distracted driving: cognitive, visual and manual. Texting and driving is extremely dangerous because it involves all three forms of distracted driving.

Cognitive

Cognitive distraction occurs when the driver’s mind is not focused on driving. Examples include talking to passengers in the vehicle, thinking about stressful issues or listening to loud music.

Visual

Visual distraction occurs when the driver is not focused on looking at the road ahead. Examples include looking for items around the vehicle, looking down at a GPS device or watching a movie/video on a mobile phone.

Manual

Manual distraction occurs when the driver takes one or both hands off the wheel for any reason. Examples include eating food or drinking beverages, reaching backwards or handling a mobile device.

 

Helpful Tips 

Here are a few tips to help you plan ahead, so you remain focused and alert while driving.

Put your mobile phone away.

Pull over, if you need to make a phone call or send a text message. Never use a mobile device while driving. A hands-free device is safer to use, but the driver should still exercise caution and remain focused on the road.

Set your GPS in advance

Program your GPS navigation before you leave the driveway. If you need to adjust your GPS, then pull over. Never operate GPS navigation while driving.

Safely secure child passengers and pets

Make sure all passengers are properly secured before you begin driving. If child passengers or pets become disruptive within the vehicle, then pull over to address the disruptions.

Eat beforehand

Make time in your schedule to eat before your trip. Never eat behind the wheel.

 

Additional Information:                                                                                                                                                                     handsfree

https://tntrafficsafety.org/distracted-driving