The Dangers of Distraction: Staying Focused While Driving Can Keep Roads Safe, Save Lives (Tips + Statistics)

Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of crashes in the United States, claiming thousands of lives each year and injuring countless more. And Distracted Driving Awareness Month reminds us that staying focused behind the wheel isn’t just good practice, it’s a lifesaving commitment.

This month is a time to reflect on the dangers of distracted driving and commit to safer habits behind the wheel. By understanding the latest statistics, recognizing common distractions, and adopting practical safety tips, we can all play a role in making our roads safer. Take these statistics, for example:

• 3,522 people were killed in crashes involving distracted driving in 2021, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the most recent year for which data is available.
• Over 1,000 people are injured every day in crashes involving distracted drivers, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates.
• Drivers are distracted for an average of 33% of their time behind the wheel, with smartphones being the most common culprit, a 2023 study by AAA found.

“Distracted driving is entirely preventable, yet it continues to claim thousands of lives each year,” said Matt Clark, managing partner and attorney at the Law Office of Chain | Cohn | Clark. “By raising awareness and committing to safe habits behind the wheel, we can protect ourselves and others from unnecessary tragedies. Every text message can wait. Every call can wait. No distraction is worth risking someone’s life.”

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including:

• Texting or using a smartphone. This is one of the most dangerous forms of distraction because it combines visual, manual, and cognitive distractions.
• Eating or drinking. Taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road to grab a snack can significantly impair your reaction time.
• Adjusting controls. Changing the radio station, setting up GPS directions, or adjusting climate controls can take your focus away from driving.
• Talking to passengers. While less risky than texting, engaging in animated conversations can still divert your attention.

Distracted driving reduces your ability to react to changing road conditions, increasing the likelihood of crashes. For example, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds, enough time to cover the length of a football field at 55 mph.

In addition, multitasking while driving slows reaction times to levels comparable to drunk driving, experts say.

Preventing distracted driving starts with small but impactful changes. Here are some tips that can help you avoid distracted driving.

1. Put your phone away: Use “Do Not Disturb” while driving, or place your phone out of reach to avoid temptation.
2. Set up before you drive: Adjust mirrors, GPS settings, and climate controls before hitting the road.
3. Avoid eating or drinking: Plan meals before or after your trip instead of during it.
4. Focus on driving: Keep conversations with passengers light and avoid emotionally charged discussions that could distract you.
5. Be a role model: Set an example for others, especially young drivers, by practicing safe habits.

Many states have enacted laws to combat distracted driving, deter dangerous behaviors, and hold drivers accountable. In fact, texting while driving is prohibited in all 50 states and Washington D.C., though enforcement varies. In our state of California, it is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving. Violators face fines starting at $162 for a first offense. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using any electronic device, even hands-free.

Technology can be both a problem and a solution when it comes to distracted driving. Apps like “LifeSaver” and “SafeDrive” discourage phone use while driving by blocking notifications and rewarding safe behavior. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in modern vehicles can help mitigate risks by providing features like lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking.

Distracted Driving Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that staying focused behind the wheel is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent accidents, attorney Matt Clark said. By understanding the risks, following safety tips, and encouraging others to do the same, we can make our roads safer for everyone.

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If you or someone you know is injured in an accident at the fault of someone else, or injured on the job no matter whose fault it is, contact the attorneys at Chain | Cohn | Clark by calling (661) 323-4000, or fill out a free consultation form, text, or chat with us at chainlaw.com.