Lesson #4 Driving without distractions
Distractions on the road are everywhere, from the scenery outside the car to the music inside the car. These interruptions often result in people failing to drive safely.
Perhaps the biggest distraction out there are our mobile phones, as well as passengers and in car features such as entertainment systems, music and Google Maps. Outside your car big distractions are constantly present in the form of other vehicles, buses, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians and animals.
This is why we need your help to come up with solutions to six challenges that may stop you from paying attention while driving. The challenges can be worked on individually by students or collaboratively in small groups. Be sure to think your ideas through carefully and brainstorm suggestions with each other.
Challenge 1
Many people keep their phones within reach and on loud when driving, which means they get temped to answer phone calls and text messages, or to change their music.
Challenge 2
As a young driver, you may want to drive with friends in the car. However, sometimes these passengers can talk too much, which can take your attention away from the road.
Challenge 3
Many cars come with entertainment systems that play music, but this often means people look away to change songs when driving.
Challenge 4
Global Positioning System (GPS) devices can help you find a destination easily, but many people enter their desired addresses while driving.
Challenge 5
Sometimes you might see people you know or animals on the side of the road, which can cause you to take your eyes off the road.
Challenge 6
Fallen trees or powerlines, as well as cracks, potholes and rubbish on the road are hazards for drivers.
How did you go?
If you need some help to kick start your ideas, check out these resources:
- Are we driving on the road or a racetrack?
- Hear about truck driver Peter's experience with an inattentive driver
- Extra steps motorcyclists can take to be safe when travelling on the road
- Patrolling Tassie's roads
- Knowing the impact of alcohol when driving
- Keeping an eye out for pedestrian behaviour
- Sending a text message when driving is just not possible!