Distracted driving refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while engaging in any activity that diverts a driver's attention away from the primary task of driving. These distractions can significantly impair a driver's ability to react to road conditions, other vehicles, pedestrians, and unexpected events, increasing the risk of accidents and collisions.

There are three main types of distractions: visual distractions, manual distractions, and cognitive distractions. Visual distractions take your eyes off the road, manual distractions take your hands off the steering wheel, while cognitive distractions take your mind and attention away from the primary task of safely operating a vehicle.

Here are some common causes of distracted driving:

• Texting and Smartphone Use: Texting while driving is a significant and widespread cause of distraction. Drivers who text take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and focus away from driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Talking on the Phone: Even using a hands-free device can be distracting as it diverts cognitive attention from driving. Engaging in conversations, especially complex or emotional ones, can impair a driver's ability to react to road conditions.
• Grooming: Activities like applying makeup, combing hair, or shaving while driving require manual dexterity and visual attention, both of which can lead to accidents.
• Eating and Drinking: Consuming food or beverages while driving necessitates taking one or both hands off the wheel and often diverts visual attention as well.
• Adjusting In-Car Systems: Changing the radio station, adjusting the temperature, or programming GPS systems can be distracting, as they require manual and visual attention away from the road.
• Passengers: Conversations with passengers, especially when they are engaging or emotionally charged, can divert cognitive focus from driving.
• Daydreaming or Mind-Wandering: When a driver's mind drifts away from the task of driving, they may not react promptly to changing road conditions or hazards.
• External Distractions: Scenery, billboards, other accidents, or interesting sights outside the vehicle can capture a driver's attention and cause momentary lapses in focus.
• Fatigue: Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. Fatigue impairs cognitive abilities and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Stress and Emotional Distress: Strong emotions, such as anger, sadness, or frustration, can affect a driver's concentration and decision-making.
• Multi-tasking: Attempting to perform non-driving tasks simultaneously, such as reading, watching videos, or using a laptop, can be extremely distracting and dangerous.
• Notifications and Alerts: Frequent smartphone notifications, such as incoming calls, text messages, or app alerts, can tempt drivers to check their phones, diverting their attention from the road.

Distracted driving is also a criminal offense in Tennessee. A first violation is punishable by a maximum fine of $50, while a third or subsequent violation or a violation involving a crash carries a fine worth up to $100. Lastly, distracted driving in school or work zones carries a fine of up to $200.

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