8 Things You Are Doing That Could Be Considered Distracted Driving
Most drivers think distracted driving only refers to texting behind the wheel. But the truth is, distractions come in many forms—some so subtle, you might not even know you’re doing them. The consequences, however, are anything but subtle. Accidents, tickets, and even fatalities often come down to just a few seconds of divided attention. If you drive regularly, it’s time to take a closer look at these everyday actions that fall under the category of distracted driving.
1. Eating While Driving
We’ve all done it—grabbing a burger, sipping coffee, or unwrapping a granola bar behind the wheel. But eating requires one hand off the wheel and your attention off the road. Spills or dropped food can cause you to react instinctively, leading to swerving or abrupt stops. Even “quick bites” at red lights can carry over into active driving time. If your hands and focus aren’t fully on the road, you’re engaging in distracted driving.
2. Adjusting the GPS or Music
Tapping through songs or entering a new address in your GPS might feel like second nature, but it’s still a form of distraction. Looking down at your screen for just a few seconds can cause you to miss a stop sign, a pedestrian, or another vehicle. Even steering wheel controls can be dangerous if they require too much thought or reach. The safest move? Set everything before you shift into drive. Once you’re moving, your eyes should stay forward, not on the touchscreen.
3. Talking on the Phone (Even Hands-Free)
Hands-free doesn’t always mean distraction-free. While your hands may be on the wheel, your mind is somewhere else when you’re deep in conversation. Studies show that cognitive distractions reduce your reaction time just as much as physical ones. If the call is emotional or stressful, your driving focus slips even more. Distracted driving includes mental distractions, not just physical ones.
4. Reaching for Items in the Car
Whether it’s your phone on the passenger seat, a dropped pen, or something in the backseat, reaching around while driving is risky. Your body naturally shifts, your eyes leave the road, and your reaction time slows. It only takes one second of looking away for an accident to happen. If something falls, let it go until you’re parked. Nothing in your car is worth your life—or someone else’s.
5. Talking to Passengers
Conversations can be enjoyable on long drives, but they can also become distracting, especially if they’re heated, humorous, or require a lot of attention. Glancing at your passenger or getting too caught up in the discussion can pull your mind away from the road. This is especially true for younger or less experienced drivers. Safe driving means balancing engagement with passengers while maintaining full focus on driving duties.
6. Grooming or Fixing Your Appearance
Yes, people really do apply makeup, fix their hair, or check their teeth in the rearview mirror while driving. Whether it’s at a stoplight or during slow traffic, these actions count as distracted driving. You can’t effectively control a vehicle while holding a mascara wand or adjusting your collar. Grooming routines belong in your bathroom, not in your driver’s seat. It’s not just risky, it can also earn you a ticket in some states.
7. Daydreaming or “Zoning Out”
You don’t need a phone in your hand to be distracted. Getting lost in thought while driving—whether it’s about your day, stress, or even a song lyric—can be just as dangerous. This type of cognitive distraction is incredibly common and harder to recognize. You might miss exits, ignore signals, or delay braking without realizing it. Staying mentally present is just as important as keeping your hands on the wheel.
8. Dealing With Kids or Pets
Kids crying in the backseat or pets jumping around can demand a lot of your attention, and often, when you can’t afford it. Turning around to hand something to your child or calming a barking dog divides your attention at critical moments. Even brief interactions can cause you to swerve, brake late, or miss a hazard. If needed, pull over safely before handling any backseat emergencies.
Awareness Is the First Step to Safer Driving
The scary thing about distracted driving is how normal most of the behaviors seem. They’re built into daily routines and often done with the best of intentions—multitasking, staying connected, or simply saving time. But behind the wheel, those few seconds of inattention can cost far more than we expect. Recognizing these distractions is the first step toward safer roads for everyone. Because staying alive and alert will always be more important than answering a text or finishing that snack.
Have you caught yourself doing any of these behind the wheel? What’s your biggest driving distraction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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