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Distractions such as cell phones, weather conditions, and passengers can affect a driver’s alertness. Gadgets like navigation systems and radios can also divert attention from the road. Texting while driving is particularly dangerous.
Some of the factors that can affect alertness while driving are cell phone use, radio setting, weather conditions, and other people in the vehicle. Gadgets such as cell phones or navigation systems can divert a driver’s attention from the road, especially if distracted by a visually demanding action such as texting. Weather conditions can also have an adverse effect on the driver’s attention, especially during heavy rain or snowfall, which can limit the driver’s peripheral vision. Other distractions may also be a factor, such as passengers, eating, or other traffic.
The use of cell phones while operating a vehicle can divert an individual’s attention while driving. The driver may need to handle the phone to answer it or make a call, and the conversation itself can be distracting, especially on important or stressful calls. For many drivers, this has led to the use of a hands-free unit to limit phone handling as much as possible. Text messaging can also distract the driver and can even inhibit proper steering when the driver uses the phone to type.
Other gadgets or electronic devices can also affect a driver’s attention. Adjusting a radio can be very annoying, just like removing or inserting a compact disc or operating a portable music player. Navigation systems can be just as annoying if the driver is changing settings or focusing too much on the screen.
Rain and snow are generally considered factors that motivate the driver to focus more on the road, but these conditions can also negatively affect attentiveness while driving. In heavy snow or rain, the driver may focus too much on what is directly in front of the vehicle or may simply have limited peripheral vision. This can be even more concerning at night.
Passengers in the vehicle may also require attention while driving, especially children. Other drivers may also steer off the road, either by driving recklessly, honking unnecessarily, or playing a stereo system too loud. Eating while driving is a relatively common practice, but it also has an effect on the driver’s attention to the road.
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