April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

(KNSI) — What do you think of when you hear the phrase distracted driving? It may bring up images of someone texting or talking on the phone, but the Minnesota Department of Public Safety says distracted or inattentive driving is when engages in any activity that might distract them from the primary task of driving – and significantly increases their risk of crashing. That includes eating, drinking, dealing with rowdy children or pets, reading maps or emails, and even drowsy driving.

Psychology professor Dr. David Diamond gives insight into why so many people allow themselves to get distracted by their phones while driving.

“You’ve got curiosity, but you’ve also got potential anxiety, so you’re reluctant then to allow the phone to continue to ring without answering it.”

Between 2016 and 2020, more than 39,000 crashes were distracted driving-related, contributing to one in nine crashes in Minnesota. In 2020, distracted driving contributed to 2,612 injuries and 29 deaths. Distracted driving contributes to 11 percent of crashes in the state. With Minnesota’s hands-free law, it’s illegal for drivers to read, send texts and emails, and access the web while the vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic. That includes sitting at a stoplight or stop sign. The first ticket is more than $120, including the fine plus court fees.

Nationwide, fatalities were up 12 percent through the first nine months of 2021. Meanwhile, a new study from Nationwide found that people are still driving dangerously despite worrying about other people doing the same. Compared to 2020, more than 80% of respondents think drivers are more aggressive, and nearly the same amount think people drive faster. At the same time, a third of drivers believe it’s safe to use a phone behind the wheel for calling, texting, or navigation.

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