Road Safety Trust projects

Find the hidden hazards of distracted driving

Move your cursor over the picture to find the 12 common distractions in this typical driving scene. Hint: Remember, distractions happen both inside and outside the vehicle!

Personal electronic device. Keep cell phones, PDAs, etc., off while driving.

Food and drink. Consume coffee, hamburgers and other foods and beverages before your trip, or during an off-road break.

Loose objects. Secure all loose objects, like CD cases, sunglasses, or cigarette packages, before starting the car so they don't go flying during a sudden stop.

Maps. Try to plan routes before leaving, or have a navigator keep simple written directions that won't cause a visual distraction.

Conversation. Keep it light and to a minimum, to keep your mind on the road.

Decorations. Keep your rearview mirror, dashboard and back window clear for better visibility and less visual distraction.

Children. Don't allow fighting or horseplay in the car. If children act up, pull over to deal with it safely without taking your eyes off the road.

Toys. Before the trip, equip your children with appropriate toys (small, soft, and quiet) that will keep them busy without being distracting or hazardous in a sudden stop.

Personal grooming. Make-up, hair, and wardrobe adjustments should never be made on the road!

Audio systems. Whenever possible, preset radio stations and pre-program CDs or MP3 players before heading out, and keep the volume low.

Roadside distractions. Don't let what's happening beside the road, such as billboards, landscape features, or even the scene of an accident, take your eyes off the road.

Stop! Is construction taking your attention away from what is happening around you? If you didn't have your eyes and mind on the road, are you sure you would have seen this construction worker in time?

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