Like anything we do on a repetitive basis, driving can start to feel automatic. However, it is certainly not and our minds are required to be heavily focused to drive safely. Distractions pose a real threat to road users and pedestrians. When we say “distractions”, what is it that we mean? Outlined below are some of the more notable ways that a driver’s concentration can be taken off of the road.  Lost in thought The most common way for a…

There are many people who do things they shouldn’t before getting behind the wheel of their vehicle. They might drink. They might do drugs. They may even drive after staying up all night to get something important done. All of these people put others in harm’s way when they choose to drive. Drugged, drowsy and drunk driving are all as dangerous as each other. Did you know that drowsiness is the cause behind around 21% of all fatal crashes? Alcohol…

A head-on collision is one of the most dangerous types of car accidents. These incidents often result in severe injuries to those involved, and it is not uncommon for the victims to have been hit by a drunk or distracted driver. Unfortunately, such a serious accident recently took place in Colorado, and distraction is being considered a factor.  Reports indicated that the initial crash involved an SUV and a half-ton pickup truck. It was unclear which driver may have caused…

When driving, one of the things you hate seeing is a driver who is weaving in and out of traffic. You know that they’re not safe and that their actions could lead to a crash.  Whenever someone is weaving, you have a decision to make. Should you get their license plate number and pull over to call the police? Should you try to get their attention to see if they need help? What you do could make a difference in their…

You love music. Unfortunately, in the car, the radio can be distracting, and that means that you could be putting yourself at risk of an accident if you choose to drive while using it. Researchers at Carnegie Melon performed a study to determine if people are capable of multi-tasking while driving. In that study, subjects drove a simulated driving course and then over a similar course while on the phone. Using magnetic resonance imaging, the study was able to show…