Mobile Phones and Distractions

Phone rings while turning at intersection

Turning safely requires full attention. Answering a call mid-turn increases crash risk and reduces reaction time. Complete the turn before handling distractions.

Driver texts while approaching red signal

Looking down at your phone means missing changing traffic signals. This leads to sudden braking or crossing on red.

Scrolling through playlists in slow traffic

Even in traffic jams, manual interaction with devices can reduce awareness and cause rear-end collisions.

Passenger shows a funny video while driving

Laughter and conversation can impair decision-making. Focused attention is vital, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas.

Picking up a dropped phone while moving

Reaching for objects compromises vehicle control. It’s safer to stop in a secure area before retrieving anything.

Phone GPS re-routes while passing a truck

Trucks reduce visibility and maneuvering space. Avoid looking away when passing large vehicles or in blind spots.

Typing an address into phone while stopped

Even while stationary, entering data into GPS can delay moving off or distract from traffic changes.

Using Bluetooth to call while in traffic jam

Though legal, mental focus still shifts during conversations. Use Bluetooth wisely and limit call duration.

A child in the back plays noisy mobile game

Background noise from devices can mask critical traffic sounds and reduce your reaction to sudden events.

Reading text alerts during heavy rain

Wet roads demand heightened alertness. Taking eyes off the road in such conditions is especially hazardous.

Adjusting phone mount while driving

Rearranging mounts or holders mid-drive leads to manual distraction and eye-off-road time. Prepare devices beforehand.

Phone falls to the passenger footwell

Stay focused and wait to stop in a safe area. Reaching for dropped items increases crash likelihood.

Driver takes a selfie at a scenic bend

Focus should be entirely on the road. Capture memories only when safely stopped, never while in motion.

Voice message comes in during overtaking

Passing vehicles demands precision and spatial awareness. Do not let notifications break your concentration.

Using phone flashlight while parked on roadside

Only interact with devices when fully stopped in safe locations. Avoid this if parked near traffic lanes.

Using navigation app in a complex intersection

Rely on voice instructions to keep eyes on the road. If unsure, pull over briefly to assess the route.

Phone call during school zone rush hour

Children may run across suddenly. Stay alert and avoid all forms of phone use in such sensitive areas.

Phone alarm goes off in a tunnel

Tunnel conditions are risky due to lighting and echo. Wait to exit before attending to distractions.

Music app crashes mid-play on freeway

Glitches should not tempt manual phone use at high speeds. Safety takes priority over music preferences.

Tapping mobile device to pay at toll gate

Ensure car is stationary and secure before using phone for toll payments. Avoid holding up traffic behind.

Checking mobile banking while parked in traffic

It’s safer to do banking when fully parked off the road. Never lose sight of surroundings even when idle.

Passenger takes over driver’s phone to respond

Delegating non-driving tasks helps maintain full driver concentration and reduces mental strain.

Using phone map on a rural unmarked road

Rural roads may have animals or hidden driveways. Confirm directions only when completely stopped.

Receiving multiple notifications at once

Turn on driving mode or silent mode to avoid alert overload. Reduces temptation and stress while on the move.

Stopping at a red light to reply quickly

Even brief texting at lights breaks driving continuity and may cause delays or errors when the light changes.

Answering video call with phone on dashboard

Video chats are highly distracting and should only be answered once parked. Vision and judgment are compromised.

Reading a long message at a petrol station

Petrol stations are high-risk areas with pedestrians and vehicles. Stay alert even when stationary.

Setting mobile timer for parking meter

Tasks like timers are fine once parked. Ensure your focus returns fully to traffic when rejoining the road.

Trying to photograph a reckless driver

Note number plates mentally or pull over safely to report. Taking photos while driving invites more danger.

Unlocking phone with fingerprint while driving

Even simple unlock actions mean visual and manual distraction. Use voice features if essential.