Certain types of distraction are clearly unsafe. Most drivers readily acknowledge that texting is dangerous. In fact, they recognize that it can be as dangerous as drunk driving. They also know that they shouldn’t try posting to social media or reading a client’s email while operating a motor vehicle.
However, there are other forms of distraction that people seem to think are less serious. A significant percentage of drivers admit to interacting with global positioning system (GPS) devices while operating their vehicles. More people admit to that behavior than to texting while driving or other readily acknowledged forms of distraction.
While 40% of drivers admit to using an app on their phones while driving and 47% admit to reading or composing a text message, 57% of drivers admit to using GPS devices while driving. Is it safe to use GPS devices while actively operating a motor vehicle?
GPS devices are a source of distraction
GPS devices can cause distractions that can increase collision risk. Unfortunately, drivers have a false sense of confidence when interacting with these devices. Particularly in scenarios where people have vehicles with built-in GPS systems, they may reach the conclusion that the use of such systems is relatively safe.
That simply isn’t true. Updating the destination in a GPS device requires a driver to take their eyes off of the road to look at a screen. It is a dangerous source of visual distraction. The need to physically input data into the device causes manual distraction when the driver must let go of their grip on the steering wheel. They also become cognitively distracted, meaning they mentally focus more on the GPS device than they do on their surroundings.
All of that combined can turn a brief GPS update into the underlying cause of a wreck. Motorists should make a point of inputting information into GPS devices before they start driving or asking their passengers to make any necessary changes. Of course, they can still end up involved in collisions caused by others.
Those who suspect that the driver at fault for a recent car crash was distracted may need to convey that suspicion to police officers. Holding a driver accountable is easier when police reports indicate that distraction may have played a role in the wreck.