Driving has always required our full attention, yet the modern world constantly tempts us with distractions. Smartphones and other technology have introduced a new road risk: distracted while driving (DWD). This behavior can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol, which is why the acronym “DWD” is meant to be similar to the more common “DWI” for “driving while intoxicated.
While society heavily stigmatizes drunk driving, distracted driving often escapes similar scrutiny, even though it shares identical risks and outcomes. Fortunately, awareness can help make the roads safer for everyone.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving involves any activity that diverts your attention from driving. Common distractions include:
- Texting
- Scrolling through social media
- Eating and drinking
- Doing your makeup
- Adjusting music selection
- Setting your GPS
- Calming a child in the backseat
- Having an intense argument with a passenger
Texting is especially hazardous, as it distracts you for an average of five seconds. At 55 mph, this is similar to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. In 2022, distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives, showing its deadly potential.
Drunk driving: A familiar foe
Drunk driving has long been recognized as a severe threat. We all know that alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and motor skills, all crucial for safe driving. Public campaigns and legal penalties try to reduce drunk driving incidents, yet it remains a leading cause of road fatalities. The choice to drink and drive is widely frowned upon, reflecting a societal understanding of its dangers.
Increasing DWD awareness
Both distracted and drunk driving involve a decision to engage in risky behavior. Whether choosing to text or consume alcohol, these actions result in impaired driving ability and increased crash risk. Both behaviors can lead to severe consequences, including injuries, fatalities, and substantial economic losses. In 2019, distracted driving led to financial losses totaling $98.2 billion.
Despite these similarities, distracted driving lacks the stigma associated with drunk driving. These differences may stem from the idea that using a phone while driving is less hazardous. Still, statistics reveal the opposite: distracted driving accounts for 8 percent of all fatal crashes, a sizable proportion that demands attention.
Legislation has helped lessen drunk driving, and similar measures are combating distracted driving. In 2020, 24 states and the District of Columbia banned talking on a hand-held cellphone while driving. Moreover, nearly all states prohibit text messaging while driving, reflecting a growing recognition of the issue.
In addition to legal measures, technology offers promising solutions. Crash avoidance systems can alert drivers to potential collisions, redirecting their attention to the road. While not foolproof, these innovations could reduce distracted driving incidents.
Distracted driving poses a threat comparable to that of drunk driving, yet it lacks the same level of public awareness and stigma. To ensure safer roads, we must recognize the dangers of DWD. Through education, legislation, and technology, we can work towards reducing all types of impaired driving.
