Facts and Statistics About Distracted Driving

Fact 1: There are several ways you can get distracted while driving

Distracted driving can happen a few different ways: visually, manually or cognitively. And the truth is, many people are at risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that these are the three main types of distraction.²

Visual distractions

This happens when you stop looking at the road, even for a second. It can happen when you look at a passenger in the back, up at a billboard or down at your phone. It can even happen when you check your GPS system to get directions. It’s incredibly easy to be visually distracted while driving.

Manual distractions

This type of distraction happens when you take your hands off the wheel. For example, you might continue your morning routine in the car by eating breakfast, drinking coffee or putting on makeup. So, is drinking coffee distracted driving? It can be, especially if it causes you to remove a hand from the wheel, look down or shift your attention away from traffic. Many things you do in your vehicle can be considered manual distractions, like adjusting the radio, reading directions or answering a phone call. The safest way to operate your vehicle is with both hands on the wheel.

Cognitive distractions

Our minds can wander, even while we’re driving. A cognitive distraction is when you’re thinking about something other than driving. You’re more at risk for a cognitive distraction when you’re chatting with another passenger or on your phone, daydreaming or if you simply have too much on your mind.

Is talking on the phone distracted driving? It can be, yes — even if your hands stay on the wheel. Federal safety guidance consistently points to cellphone use as one of the clearest examples of distracted driving. In fact, the CDC notes that reading or sending a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.²

Quick safety reminder: Is texting distracted driving? Yes. Texting combines all three types of distraction at once – visual, manual and cognitive – which is why safety agencies consistently warn against it.

Fact 2: Most drivers get distracted, even knowing it’s risky

Many drivers know distracted driving is dangerous, but risky habits still happen every day. NHTSA reports that drivers ages 15 to 20 made up the largest share of distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2023.¹

Why? Our culture is increasingly on-the-go, and there can be pressure to always be available. But even a quick glance at a screen can create serious risk. These texting and driving facts are worth remembering every time you get behind the wheel.

• Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds.²
• In 2023, 587 nonoccupants, including pedestrians and cyclists, were killed in distracted-driving crashes.¹
• Handheld phone use is banned for all drivers in many states, and texting bans are widespread across the U.S.³

Distracted driving can happen any day of the week, and at any time. As you drive this week, whether it’s to work or around town, take note of when you’re most distracted, whether it’s by passengers, food or phone calls.

One simple rule can help: If something takes your eyes, hands or mind away from driving, handle it before you leave or after you park.

Want a broader look at safer habits behind the wheel? Read “Safe Driving Tips to Lower Your Insurance Costs”.

Fact 3: Young adult and teen drivers are most at risk

Teen and young adult drivers face added risk because inexperience and distraction can be a dangerous combination. According to the CDC, teen drivers ages 16 to 19 have a higher crash risk than older drivers, and distraction is one of several behaviors that can make that risk worse.⁴ Fortunately, if you’re the parent of a teen or young adult, there are steps you can take to help protect your kids. Here are a few:

Be a good example

Your teen or young adult watches you, and despite being older now, will still model your behavior. It’s especially important to practice what you preach and be focused on the road. Stay off your cellphone and avoid multitasking while driving.

Talk with your teen or young adult

Explain the importance of staying focused while driving. You can use statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the U.S. Department of Transportation to illustrate the severity of the problem.

Encourage speaking up

Teens and young adults are easily influenced by their peers. They should speak up if they see a peer texting or otherwise distracted while driving. Sometimes, that’s the best way to deliver the message.

Set consequences

Sign a pledge with your teen or young adult driver. If the pledge is broken, set firm consequences. Remember, safety begins with you setting rules in your own family.

Rely on a driving app

Technology has come a long way and can even help keep your teen safe on the road. Apps can monitor your teen’s location and driving speed, as well as silence text messages and phone calls.

Do you have a teen? As a parent, you have tremendous influence on your teen or young adult. It’s important to use that influence to teach them to stay safe on the road – for their sake and for the sake of others. You can also explore Teen Driver Resources and “Ways to Save on Insurance for Young Drivers”.

Fact 4: New car technology may actually be more distracting

If you just bought a new car, it’s probably packed with new features. But some of these features can be more distracting than others, and, therefore, unsafe. Just because you have hands-free calling doesn’t mean it’s distraction-free. The truth is, you’re safest when you avoid phone calls, texts and extra notification sounds altogether.

But keep in mind, not all new car technology is bad. In fact, there are many safety features that can help protect your family, too. The key is using this technology the right way – and being aware of your risk for distraction.

Staying safe on the road takes commitment. You can have safety features in your vehicle, but if you don’t use them properly or if your mind wanders, you’re still at risk. If you think you may be a distracted driver, it’s critical to understand the potential consequences and make a vow to change. This may require you to change your routine or tell your colleagues you’re unavailable when you’re on the road.

Distracted driving laws can vary by state. At the federal level, the government prohibits texting while driving for commercial motor vehicle drivers and handheld phone use for commercial drivers in many circumstances.³ States set their own rules for most passenger vehicles, including texting bans, handheld phone restrictions and novice-driver limits. To check the latest rules where you live, review the Governors Highway Safety Association distracted driving laws overview and your state motor vehicle agency.

Steps to stay focused on the road

The good news is that there are steps you can take to be more focused on the road. Here are a few:

• Get ready before getting in the car.
• Activate your phone’s setting to automatically alert callers and texters that you’re driving. If your phone doesn’t have this setting, put it on silent or “Do not disturb” mode.
• Listen to music at a low volume.
• Avoid arguments or heated conversations in the car.

If you have kids, then you probably know that whether they’re arguing in the backseat or singing songs, children can be distracting while you’re driving. If possible, teach your children that it’s important for you to stay focused on the road. Tell them you need to wait until you get to your destination before addressing some of their needs. If it can’t wait, pull over to a safe spot first. If you’re helping a new driver build safe habits, see “6 Common Mistakes Teen Drivers Make”.