Drive focused, always

We say "distraction while driving," and our thoughts immediately go to cell phones. Yes, using a cell phone while behind the wheel is certainly one of the most dangerous behaviors, but there are others – seemingly more harmless – that still put our safety at risk while driving. To be distracted means to "loosen, divert one's attention, letting one's thoughts wander elsewhere." So, shifting one's attention from the road to something else drastically reduces safety. Let's clarify. We speak of manual distraction when hands move from the steering wheel: lighting a cigarette, taking a selfie, using the radio or CD player, eating. If eyes move from the road, this is visual distraction: reading a message, lingering on a roadside advertisement, constantly checking the navigation system. When the driver's mind begins to chase other thoughts – an engaging phone conversation, solving a problem, organizing an important meeting, for example – we are faced with cognitive distraction. Often, the three types mix: I turn around to pass a snack to the children in the back seat, trying to calm a tantrum. In a car, a few moments of delay in perceiving a sudden danger can make the difference between an avoided accident and a tragedy. Conclusion? Eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, mind focused on driving, always.