Dangerous Distractions While Driving: More Harmful Than Mobile Phone Use

Distracted driving is a significant concern on our roads. Legal or not, certain activities can be far more dangerous than using a mobile phone. Particularly, having children in the backseat can be one of the most overlooked but highly dangerous distractions for drivers.

The Hidden Danger of Rear-Seat Passengers

Rear-seat passengers, whether it's a single child or multiple kids, can become the center of the driver's attention. Parents are prone to argument, fighting, talking, hitting, and distracting activities that demand their focus. This can divert a parent's attention from the road, creating a dangerous situation on the highway.

It is not uncommon for a parent to reach over the seatback to settle their children or turn their head to monitor the backseat activities. They often spend almost as much time in the rear-view mirror, trying to keep an eye on the children's actions. This practice can be particularly risky, especially during unexpected situations or emergencies when the driver needs to react quickly.

The Legality of Talking on the Phone While Driving

In the United States, texting and talking on the phone while driving are not intrinsically illegal. While local ordinances may allow for citations, these actions are not criminal in nature.

However, when it comes to distractions, the situation changes. Distracted driving, including certain activities such as turning your head and looking away from the road, smoking, eating, and interacting with electronic devices, is illegal. If involved in an accident, investigators can legally check your radio, phone, and any other device to determine if they were the cause of your distraction.

Modern Car Dashboards: A New Frontier of Distractions

Improvements in car technology have introduced complex in-car entertainment systems that can be exceedingly dangerous for drivers. Specifically, the central control consoles where sound systems, air conditioning, GPS, and other features are managed, can significantly distract drivers.

I encounter such issues frequently when renting cars abroad, particularly in Europe. The consoles are often so intricate that they resemble the instrument panel of a commercial airline, with unfamiliar controls and cryptic displays. Attempts to adjust these systems can lead to erroneous actions, such as accidentally turning up the volume or activating advanced features unnecessarily. While there is no law against using these systems while driving, they can be highly distracting and,

For instance, after 10 minutes of driving in an unfamiliar car, I may need to adjust the air conditioning, only to find that the in-car system resembles the control panel of a spacecraft. Attempts to navigate it can lead to loud music or other accidental functions, which are jerks out on the road, making for a dangerous driving experience.

In conclusion, the legal aspects of distracted driving vary by jurisdiction. However, whether the activity is legal or not, the primary concern should always be the safety of the driver and passengers. Simple controls and straightforward technology would greatly minimize these distractions and enhance road safety.