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The Top 10 Driver Distractions
13 February 2017
At some point during a vehicle journey it is suggested that the majority of drivers have been distracted by paying attention to a secondary activity.
We have listed below our top ten categories of driver distraction activity (in no particular order):
- Hands-free telephone conversation
- Manipulating radio, music device or vehicle controls
- Looking at notes / reading
- Texting / reference to mobile device screen
- Internal conversation with a passenger
- Eating / drinking
- Handheld telephone use
- Searching the cab for an object
- Apparent fatigue / boredom
- Personal grooming
Drivers that are distracted could be charged with a range of offences such as Dangerous Driving, Careless and Inconsiderate Driving, Failure to be in Proper Control of the Vehicle or Driving without Due Care and Attention. The charge will be dependent on how badly the distraction affected their driving.
The Construction and Use Regulations also prevent the use of certain types of technology in vehicles such as hand held mobile phones.
When a driver is at work their employer also has a responsibility towards the safety of their employees and other road users that may be affected by their actions. Employers need to put in place all 'reasonably practicable' safety measures on work related journeys. This includes making sure that drivers are aware of the dangers of distraction, are trained to deal with it, and are trained in the safe use of any in vehicle technology which may cause a distraction.
More information surrounding driver distractions can be found on the RoSPA website: http://www.rospa.com/road-safety/advice/drivers/distraction/fact-sheet/
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