How Can You Best Limit Cell Phone Distractions While Driving?

Regular smartphone usage has driven the fear of missing out, or as the youth refers to as FOMO. While cell phones offer many benefits, such as communicating with friends, enjoying music, or offering the best GPS route, this handheld tech can be extremely harmful in certain situations to both young and older drivers alike.

Cell Phone Courtesy Month is observed every July in an effort to keep phone users mindful of phone etiquette–especially when behind the wheel. Here is how to best limit distractions and prevent a mindless car accident from taking place.

The Facts on How Cell Phones Cause Distracted Driving

In 2021, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) issued nearly 56,000 citations for distracted driving violations, like failing to follow the state’s hands-free cell phone laws.

With so much at risk, between fines ($20 for the first offense and $50 for subsequent offenses) and endangering their own lives, it is difficult to understand why so many distracted drivers struggle to tuck their phones away and just drive.

Recent studies show that Americans check their phones once at least every 12 minutes, even when driving. This is particularly concerning, as distractions shift focus from complete concentration on driving to multitasking. 

Three Types of Distracted Driving

Cell phones were the leading cause of distracted driving accidents among teenagers and young adults between the ages of 15 and 24. Ultimately, distractions affect three key areas.

• Visual: Texting, dialing, or even quickly glancing at notifications takes eyes off the road, hindering the ability to watch for potential hazards like other vehicles, pedestrians, or animals.
• Manual: Simply holding a phone means taking at least one hand off the wheel, reducing the ability to steer and control a motor vehicle, especially during sudden maneuvers.
• Cognitive: Phone calls and texting can divert attention away from driving. This “cognitive distraction” affects the ability to anticipate situations, react quickly, and make sound driving decisions.

Inattention Blindness

Whether it’s taking phone calls on speakerphone mode, sending text messages, or checking Instagram notifications at a red light, most smartphone users have been guilty of using their mobile devices while driving.

What may appear seemingly harmless can actually have dire consequences. Distracted driving can trigger a phenomenon known as inattentional blindness.

In this state, even while looking forward, the brain struggles to register what is visually ahead. This means a driver could face something head-on but not “see” it due to a diverted cognitive focus.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving and Cell Phone Dependency

Common types of mobile phone distractions include phone calls, texting, social media, GPS, taking photos and videos, music apps, and watching videos. Regardless of the type of distraction, taking eyes off the road carries serious outcomes.

Distracted driving dramatically increases the odds of motor vehicle crashes, harming passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving cases resulted in over 3,100 fatal crashes nationwide.

Inability to Disconnect and the Consequences

Outside of driving incidents, regular phone usage can negatively impact an individual’s overall well-being. This can be exhibited in the following:

• Mental health: Linked to increased anxiety, depression, and chronic stress
• Social interactions: Negatively impact relationships with friends and family by hindering effective communication both intimately and at social gatherings
• Productivity: Significant time drain, potentially leading to neglected work and responsibilities
• Social skills: Decline in face-to-face communication skills 
• Increased boredom: Experience lack of interest or stimulation when not using a phone

Studies have found that excessive cell phone use can lead to technological addiction, which can be just as severe as substance abuse. 

Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving for National Cell Phone Courtesy Month and Beyond

To be courteous, smartphone users must ensure that safe driving practices are followed. Doing so will reduce the risk of a car accident, protecting all road users from negligent consequences.

• Maintain focus: Do not text or check notifications, even at red lights or stop signs.
• Pull over if necessary: If cell phone use is needed, pull over into a safe space or designated parking spot.
• Ask for assistance: If a passenger is present, delegate texting or calling duties to him or her.
• Minimize distractions: Utilize “Do Not Disturb” mode or silence notifications to avoid temptations while driving.
• Promote safety: As a passenger, politely request that the driver put the phone away for everyone’s safety.

Help After a Distracted Driving Car Accident

Distracted driving is preventable, and it’s never too late to implement safe driving practices. Even passengers can play a crucial role by reminding drivers to focus on the road and avoid using cell phones while behind the wheel.

Raising awareness about the risks of distracted driving can significantly improve road safety for everyone. If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident involving a distracted driver, please contact our Newport Beach car accident attorneys for a free consultation. 

At Beach Accident Attorneys, our dedicated legal team can help you recover compensation for your injuries.