Introduction

This week we will focus on Distracted Driving, a growing risk both on and off the job. With busier schedules, constant notifications, and more demands on our attention, it’s easy for our focus to drift, especially behind the wheel. Even a momentary lapse can have serious consequences. We will examine common distractions, safe driving practices, startling statistics, and personal reflections to help us build stronger habits and stay fully present whenever we are on the road.

Monday – Everyday Distractions

People are busier than ever, and our attention is constantly being pulled in multiple directions. With nonstop notifications, apps, and alerts designed to steal our focus, it’s no surprise that distraction behind the wheel is a growing safety risk.

Driving distractions fall into three main categories:

• Visual — taking your eyes off the road
• Manual — taking your hands off the wheel
• Cognitive — taking your mind off driving

Think about your own recent driving. Have you ever arrived somewhere with no clear memory of the trip? Reached for food, looked at your phone, or let your thoughts drift? If so, it’s a sign to pause, reset, and recommit to staying fully present behind the wheel. Recognize when your mind wanders and intentionally bring your focus back to the road. Your safety—and everyone else’s—depends on it.

Tuesday – Driving Don’ts

To keep yourself and others safe, avoid the following behaviors behind the wheel:

• Do not read or send text messages while driving
• Do not use your cell phone and don’t keep it on your lap where it can become a projectile
• Don’t apply makeup or adjust your hair while driving
• Be mindful of eating while driving - small snacks may be manageable, but messy or two-handed foods (burgers, tacos, salads, ice cream, etc.) take your attention away from the road
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Avoid aggressive driving, tailgating, or speeding
• Don’t let anger or frustration take over, yelling or gesturing at other drivers doesn’t solve anything and increases stress and distraction

Wednesday – Driving Do’s

Safe driving comes down to preparation, awareness, and good habits:

• Avoid distractions like adjusting controls, texting, eating, or drinking
• Continuously scan the roadway for changing conditions
• Take breaks every two hours to rest, stretch, and reset
• Reduce stress by planning your route, allowing extra time, and avoiding peak traffic when possible
• Adjust speed and following distance when carrying heavy loads or towing
• Always wear seat belts, both drivers and passengers
• Drive defensively and adapt to traffic, weather, pedestrians, road conditions, and lighting
• Use hands-free technology only when necessary
• Be well-rested before driving
• Avoid medications that cause drowsiness
• On long trips, set realistic daily mileage goals and stop when fatigued

Thursday – Things to Keep in Mind

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) continues to highlight the dangers of distracted driving. Recent data shows:

• 3,522 lives were lost in 2021 due to distracted driving (up from 2020).
• 8% of fatal crashes, 14% of injury crashes, and 13% of all police-reported crashes involved distraction.
• An estimated 362,415 people were injured in distraction-affected crashes.
• In fatal crashes, 5% of all drivers and 7% of drivers aged 15–20 were reported as distracted.
• 644 non-occupants (pedestrians, cyclists, etc.) were killed in distraction-involved incidents.
• 47 states ban texting while driving.

What do these numbers mean to you? What small actions can you take today to reduce your own risk?

Learn More: Distracted Driving in 2021 (NHTSA)

Friday – Reflection

Have you ever been in a situation involving distracted driving, or do you know someone who has?
What happened, and what did you take away from it?

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