Distracted Driving Awareness: Educating Teens On The Risks And Consequences
June 16, 2023
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Teen drivers may be more susceptible to distracted driving. Smartphones and electronic gadgets are a huge aspect of their lives.
Distracted driving impacts both the drivers and the passengers. Enrolling in a teen driving school may help reduce the risks of a distracted driving accident. Here are some of the risks and consequences of distracted driving:
Beware of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving today can be linked to the increasing use of smartphones in vehicles. Yet distracted driving extends beyond smartphone use. Distracted driving is any behavior diverting the driver’s focus from the road. It can be amplified depending on traffic and road dynamics. Heavy traffic, meandering roadways, or poor weather can exacerbate distracted driving. These conditions demand a greater level of concentration.
Types of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving falls into three primary divisions:
Visual Distractions
Anything that diverts your vision from the road constitutes a visual distraction. Looking anywhere else apart from the road can prevent the driver from identifying hazards ahead. They can include glancing at a smartphone, billboards, or pedestrians. A teen driving school can educate students on the risks of visual distractions in a controlled environment.
Cognitive Distractions
Cognitive distractions include anything that takes the driver’s mind from the road. Your brain can only handle limited information at any given time. Performance issues can occur when you multitask between driving and other tasks. Multiple functions batter the brain’s focus, reducing your driving efficiency.
Manual Distractions
Proper steering control enhances road positioning. Anything that minimizes steering control, like handling your car radio, is a manual distraction. Your hands should be on the steering wheel and your feet on the pedals for uncompromised focus.
Consequences and Risks of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving can cause injuries or deaths to both drivers and passengers. Here are some of the consequences and risks of distracted driving:
1. Crashing
Distracted driving increases the chances of a crash. It limits your ability to respond to hazards rapidly. It can also minimize your vehicle control, leading to more severe impacts when a collision occurs. Accidents can result in severe injuries and fatalities. The most pressing goal on the road should be getting to your destination. You don’t want you or your loved ones to be harmed or killed due to your mistakes.
2. Criminal Penalties
Laws oversee every aspect of driving. Not paying attention while on the road can lead to sanctions and arrests. Distracted driving can attract fines and penalty points to your license even when it doesn’t lead to a collision. The severity of the accident and your negligence can also lead to a criminal record.
3. Driving License Revocation
Accruing too many penalty points can get your license suspended or annulled. A revoked license can put off work if you are a hired driver. You will have to invest time and resources to get your license back. A suspended license also reduces your flexibility and mobility as a private motorist.
4. Higher Insurance Premiums
Distracted driving can result in increased insurance costs. The more accidents or traffic violations you get, the higher your insurance premiums can be. Your traffic and violation history can be a liability, potentially inviting higher premiums.
Contact a Teen Driving School Today
To prevent some of the risks of distracted driving, teen drivers should avoid multitasking. They should also stop texting while behind the wheel. Improving driving techniques and practicing safe driving can help maintain concentration and enhance safety.
Educating teens can help them understand the risks of distracted driving and how to avoid them. Contact a teen driving school today and learn the theory and practical aspects of safe driving.
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