Distracted drivers are a rising cause of motor vehicle accidents in our world today. They are often easy to spot as they weave in and out of neighboring lanes, running stop signs and red lights while overcompensating for obstacles that clearly startled them, but should have been visible long before any abrupt maneuvers became necessary. Driving while distracted places everyone on the road in danger and can easily lead to a serious personal injury or fatality that ruins multiple lives.

The National Traffic Safety Administration (NTSA) and the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) study the causes, types and effects of distracted driving and have shown that more than half a million people are injured annually and over 5,000 people killed in car accidents involving one or more forms of driver distraction.

Driver distraction is categorized in three main types: cognitive, manual and visual. Cognitive distraction occurs when the driver's mind is removed from the task at hand, manual distraction occurs when drivers take their hands off the wheel and visual distraction occurs when the driver's eyes are off the road. The commonplace practice of text messaging while driving involves all three types of distraction, and has been shown to increase the chance of an automobile accident by 400% or more.

Ways to Avoid Distraction While Driving

The best way to avoid a distraction-related accident is to resist engaging in activities that increase the chance of taking your mind, hands or eyes away from the task of operating a motor vehicle.

Do not use a cell phone or text while driving. Turn off your phone to minimize the chances of being distracted; if you must keep it on, pull over and come to a full stop in a safe place before answering the phone or returning a message.

Do not eat or drink while driving, save these activities for before and after each trip. Even though you think you may be saving time by consuming food or beverages while on the go, you will be held liable for damages if it is found to be the cause of the accident.

Limit your interactions with other passengers in order to remain focused on driving, keep your eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel when engaged in conversation and avoid driving when upset or angry.

Do not be tempted to comb your hair, apply makeup or groom yourself in any other way while on the road - these actions not only distract your mind, eyes and hands from driving but may lead to accidental damage to your eyes and impair your visibility.

Do not read or write while driving. Although this might seem like a no-brainer, it is best to avoid using navigation systems, PDAs or looking at maps while on the road; pull over and check the map when unsure of your directions. Even when stuck in traffic, do not read newspapers, work-related reports or do crossword puzzles while driving. You never know when your full attention will be needed.

Finally, although many new cars are outfitted with video systems and state-of-the-art sound systems do not play DJ or watch a movie while driving.