In New Zealand in 2008 driver distraction was a contributing factor in:
- 16 percent of all road deaths
- 19 percent of all reported serious injuries from road crashes
- 23 percent of all reported minor injuries from road crashes.
Keeping your mind on the task
When you're behind the wheel you need to focus on the task at hand. This will help ensure you keep control of your vehicle while being aware of your surroundings and potential hazards at the same time.
There are many causes of inattention while driving, including:
- mobile phones
- music devices such as radios, CDs and i-pods
- driver information screens and GPS devices
- food and drink
- other passengers
- scenery.
Avoiding driver distraction
- Switch mobile phones OFF when driving. It is illegal (since 1 November 2009) to send or receive text messages or calls on hand-held mobile phones while driving.
- Make sure your car's windscreens and mirrors are clean, and adjust all of the controls (including radio/stereo) before setting off, or, pull over safely to do so.
- If you're unfamiliar with the route, check on a map before starting the journey, or have someone read out directions. If you need to look at the map en-route, pull over to the roadside.
- Take regular breaks rather than eating, drinking or smoking while driving.
- Ask passengers to be quiet if you're having difficulty concentrating.
- Pullover to the roadside to read navigation device displays, even if you're just checking the screen.
