Hands-On Distractions: Top Causes of Driver Distraction

0:00Adelaide's story is making news on March 12. Researchers at the University of Canberra have pinpointed eating, drinking, and other hands-on tasks as the top distractions for drivers. In a new study using a driving simulator, they tested 103 participants aged 16 to 82 on various interruptions. The experiment covered visual, mental, physical, and sound-based distractions like handling cups or taking calls. Physical activities prove most harmful. Sharply cutting driver's focus and reaction times on the road. Sound distractions ring next, with sudden noises from passengers or a crying baby pulling attention away just as badly. Safety experts say this goes beyond phone use, which already gets lots of attention from campaigns and detection cameras. Road safety advocate, Robert Pike, shares a stark reminder. As 17, he survived a deadly crash that killed three friends and caused them both legs below the knee. He blames distractions like radio tunes and car chatter for the wreck.

1:01The researchers urge more education, especially for young drivers who take bigger risks without realizing in. Building safe habits early could cut down on these crashes and save lives. This DNN story comes to you thanks to our sponsor. Your bedtime ritual just got better. Built in sound, built in comfort. S-O-L-L-I, solely pillow.com.