Is texting at stoplights any safer than texting while in moving traffic? In this third instalment of the Seven Stages of Distraction Denial series, eDriving’s award-winning Brain Scientist Advisor Paul Atchley Ph.D. helps managers and drivers understand the real impacts of distracted driving by revealing just how risky it is to text at stoplights.
Stage 3: It’s OK to text at stoplights
Are stoplights a safe place for drivers to text?
While texting while stopped might seem safe, there is still a lot an attentive driver is doing while stopped in order to be safe when they move. Texting at a stoplight isn’t safe.
What happens to a driver’s awareness if they text at a stoplight?
When texting, all of our attention goes into the text. Our eyes are not scanning the road and our brain is not building a map of possible hazards. That means our awareness of the road when we start to drive is back to zero.
How can drivers use the time at stoplights to their advantage?
There is no more dangerous place during the drive than the intersection. Pedestrians, cyclists and cars make for a hazard filled environment. It is important to scan for hazards and build a mental map to help you navigate the intersection safely.
To learn more about this stage and all Seven Stages of Distraction Denial, view eDriving’s webinar with Dr. Atchley in which he provides further insights and tips for avoiding distracted driving.
Distraction Denial Stage 4: Hands-free calls are ok
Previous stages
Distraction Denial Stage 1: I am a better driver than most
Distraction Denial Stage 2: I am really good at multitasking
