If you feel like you are seeing more distracted drivers lately, you are correct. Today, motorists are not only talking and texting on their phones, but they are shooting videos, eating, petting their dog, and even grooming themselves while behind the wheel. To make matters worse, pre-installed vehicle technology is taking people’s attention off the road like never before.
Sadly, thousands of people are killed and hundreds of thousands more are seriously injured in distracted driving crashes each year. The dangers are not limited to those behind the wheel—pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users are often among the victims.
Recognizing Distracted Drivers
One of the most effective ways to avoid accidents involving distracted drivers is to recognize the signs early. Keep your eyes moving and watch for these common indicators of distracted driving:
Drifting within or between lanes
Weaving through traffic
Following other vehicles too closely
Delayed responses to traffic signals or actions of other vehicles
Running red lights or stop signs
Erratic or inconsistent speeds
Sudden braking without an apparent reason
Head-down posture (likely texting or using a device)
Protect Yourself from Distracted Drivers
Even if you are a highly attentive driver, you cannot control the actions of others on the road. However, you can take precautions to protect yourself from distracted drivers:
Start with smart trip planning. Drive during off-peak hours, when possible, to avoid heavy traffic, which increases the likelihood of encountering distracted drivers. Stick to well-maintained routes with fewer intersections and stoplights, where accidents are more likely to occur.
Maintain a safe buffer. If you suspect another driver is distracted, increase the distance between your vehicle and theirs. The extra space gives you more time to respond if they make a sudden or unpredictable maneuver.
Be predictable. Clearly communicate your intentions by using turn signals well in advance. The smoother and more predictable you are, the easier it is for other drivers—even distracted ones—to anticipate your movements.
Avoid lingering in the blind spots of other drivers. If they are distracted, they may forget to check if it is clear before changing lanes.
Use your horn (wisely!). A short, polite honk can alert a distracted driver who is drifting out of their lane or sitting through a green light. Avoid aggressive honking, which can escalate the situation or cause confusion.
Stay focused yourself. Defensive driving starts with your own focus. Eliminate distractions, keep both hands on the wheel, and scan the road ahead to anticipate potential hazards.
Report dangerous drivers. If you encounter someone driving so erratically that they pose an immediate threat to others, pull over safely and call 911. Be prepared to provide the vehicle's location, direction of travel, and a description to help law enforcement respond quickly.
Distracted drivers put not only themselves at risk, but everyone else on the road. By staying alert for distracted drivers and applying defensive driving techniques, you can help avoid the dangers caused by other motorists’ poor decisions and contribute to a safer road environment for everyone.
