April is about raising awareness about the perils of driving while distracted (DWD). It’s a critical initiative, considering the alarming statistics that highlight the prevalence of distracted driving and its severe consequences. Unfortunately, many drivers do not grasp the seriousness of DWD, equating it to driving under the influence.
Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, urges drivers to humanise the statistics surrounding DWD. He urges drivers to remember that each life lost to distracted driving represents a person with loved ones whose lives are forever altered.
Consider these sobering statistics, which underscore the gravity of driving distractions:
- Cellphone use while driving contributes to 25% of crashes in South Africa (some insurers suggest this figure could be as high as 60%).
• A South African study found that 25% of drivers admit to driving while distracted.
• Of these individuals, 52% engage in distractions like adjusting the radio, while 32% eat or drink while driving, and 22% use their phones.
• Distracted driving leads to harsh braking for 25% of drivers.
• Reaching for an object increases the risk of a crash by eight times.
• Having an extra passenger can double the likelihood of an accident, depending on their age.
• When a driver looks at their phone, they divert their attention from the road for approximately five seconds (or longer).
While awareness campaigns like those in April are crucial, we need to take action to combat DWD. MasterDrive has partnered with technology providers to offer solutions that address this issue. By using smartphone apps that eliminate distractions while driving, drivers can stay focused on the road without sacrificing urgent communication needs.
As the faces of those lost to DWD multiply annually, urgent action is required. Herbert emphasises the importance of taking DWD seriously and encourages every driver to explore technological solutions to reduce distractions.
Source: MotorPress
