The Leading Causes of Distracted Driving

A Constant and Growing Concern for Amazon DSPs

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents worldwide, and a key driver of auto claims amongst DSP operators.

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts attention from driving, whether it's manual, visual, or cognitive. In an era of constant connectivity and multitasking, the dangers of distracted driving have become even more prevalent. Below, we explore the most common causes of distracted driving and how they contribute to the growing number of accidents.

1. Smartphone Use

One of the most significant contributors to distracted driving today is the use of smartphones. With the rise of texting, social media, and navigation apps, many Delivery Associates find themselves reaching for their phones while on the road. Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it involves all three types of distractions: visual (looking at the screen), manual (holding the phone), and cognitive (thinking about the message). Even a brief distraction can result in severe accidents, and studies have shown that texting while driving can make you 23 times more likely to crash.

The temptation to check notifications or send quick replies has led to an increased number of accidents, especially among younger DA’s.

2. In-Car Technology and Infotainment Systems

EDV’s vans come equipped with advanced infotainment systems that allow Delivery Associates to see their route, their stops, make phone calls, and use navigation features—among many other features—all through the touchscreen. While these features are designed to make driving more convenient, they can also create distractions if not used properly.

Even though many systems now have voice recognition, attempting to adjust settings or interact with the touchscreen can still take the driver's attention off the road. DA’s may also become overly reliant on these systems, leading to less awareness of their surroundings. The complexity of these systems can also increase the chances of distractions while driving.

3. Eating and Drinking

While it may seem harmless, eating or drinking behind the wheel can be a significant distraction. Whether it's sipping coffee during a morning shift or eating a sandwich on the go, drivers often take their eyes off the road or one hand off the wheel to handle food or beverages. Spilling a drink, trying to catch a dropped fry, or adjusting the food package can lead to sudden swerves or loss of control of the vehicle.

Many drivers underestimate the impact that eating and drinking can have on their ability to concentrate. But even these seemingly small distractions can cause a momentary lapse in attention, which can be all it takes for an accident to occur. Encourage your drivers to take their allotted 30 min lunch break vs. pushing through their route and eating on the go.

4. Daydreaming and Mental Distractions

Not all distractions are external; sometimes, drivers simply lose focus because of internal, mental distractions. Daydreaming, stress, or anxiety can cause a driver to lose attention and not notice what’s happening on the road. This kind of distraction is harder to control, as it doesn’t involve a specific action but instead involves a driver’s mental focus drifting elsewhere.

• Personal Stress: Drivers who are anxious or dealing with personal issues may have a harder time concentrating on the road, leading to slower reaction times and missed cues like traffic lights or sudden changes in road conditions.

• Fatigue: Driving while drowsy is a serious form of mental distraction. Lack of sleep can impair judgment and response time, making it just as dangerous as driving under the influence.

5. Adjusting Controls or Mirrors

Many drivers adjust their seat position, mirrors, or air conditioning while driving, which is a form of physical distraction. Although these actions are essential for comfort, doing them while the car is in motion can take your focus away from the road. Even reaching for the glove compartment or rummaging through personal items can be enough to delay a driver's reaction time in an emergency.

6. Looking at Scenery or Events on the Side of the Road

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s common for drivers to be distracted by events happening outside of their vehicles. Whether it's a car accident, a billboard, or a beautiful scenic view, the human tendency to glance at intriguing sights can lead to dangerous distractions. These distractions can reduce a driver's ability to quickly respond to hazards or changes in the road.

7. Inattentional Blindness

Inattentional blindness is when a driver fails to notice something important on the road because their attention is elsewhere. This can happen even if the object is right in front of them. For example, a driver might not see a pedestrian crossing the street or miss a traffic signal because they were focused on a conversation or thinking about something else. This phenomenon underscores the importance of undivided attention while driving, something highlighted in depth in our Gryphon Academy™ offered through our portal. Encourage your drivers to “not” be on the phone while driving — even if they’re on a hands free headset or AirPods — being on the phone can cause this blindness to happen.

Conclusion: The Need for Awareness

Distracted driving is a growing concern in our space, but the good news is that many of these distractions are preventable. Enforcing simple habits like putting the phone away, adjusting all controls before driving, or staying mentally focused on the task at hand can significantly reduce the risk of an accident. Drivers must take responsibility for their actions and acknowledge the dangers posed by distractions.

By raising awareness of the leading causes of distracted driving amongst your dispatch team, your managers and your entire Delivery Associate team, Gryphon Safety + Risk Management can help to change behaviors and reduce insurance cost increases, and even save lives.

Reach out to learn more about how we can help. Insurance is necessary, but it’s not enough. The key to long-term success is taking control of your risk—and GRYPHON™ is here to help.

Remember, take control of your risk and be the guardian of your business longevity!