Teen Resource Guide - 5

DISTRAC TIO N

Often times we find ourselves trying to do several things at once because our schedules are very hectic – you may even consider yourself an expert at multitasking! However, the one place you cannot afford added distractions is behind-the-wheel of your vehicle. Did you know that researchers have identified as many as 1,700 subtasks which are performed while we are driving? 1,700! These subtasks involve planning, maneuvering the vehicle, and controlling the vehicle. When you think of all of the things our brains are processing while we are driving, do we really have the ability to add even one additional action to the mix? Take into account the fact that driving is something new which you haven’t even begun to master yet and it’s easy to understand why texting, talking on a cell phone, or managing a rowdy passenger can pose deadly risks. You’ve heard countless times about how cell phones and passengers can take your attention away from the road, but have you considered how other seemingly simple tasks can distract your attention? For example, changing the radio station, having a pet in the car, eating, drinking a soda or coffee, checking your hair in the mirror, or thinking about an argument you just had, can all take your eyes and mind off of the road just long enough to cause a crash (it only takes a second) – and what about things happening outside of the vehicle? A car pulled over on the side of the road, a crash scene, or even looking at the scenery while

you are driving are all risky when you’re behind-the-wheel. Refer back to the above section on speed for a reminder of how far a car can travel in just a few seconds!

5 | Teen Driver Resource Guide • www.dmv.ny.gov

Teen Resource Guide

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Teen Resource Guide