Driving requires focus – a driver should pay attention to their actions and those of other road users. Distractions, such as using the phone, talking with passengers or using the navigation system, lead to accidents. However, some distractions are not widely discussed, yet they are equally dangerous. This includes eating and drinking.
Here is why eating while driving is dangerous:
Dropping food
When a driver drops food, such as French fries, they may pick it up to avoid wasting food or staining the car. This means they will take their eyes off the road, which can lead to swerving or crashing into a leading car if it stops suddenly.
Taking hands off the wheel
Some foods, such as burgers and sandwiches, or those packaged in bags that must be unfolded or unwrapped, require one to use both hands. If a driver eats such food, they may need to take their hands off the wheel, which will affect their ability to control the vehicle. Further, it may be difficult for them to act quickly, if need be, for instance, swerving to avoid an obstacle on the road.
Slippery hands
Greasy foods like pizza, French fries and burgers will cause a driver’s hands to be slippery. If they don’t wipe their hands properly, which is a distraction in itself, they will transfer the oils onto the steering wheel. It can be challenging to control a car with a slippery steering wheel.
Wiping away crumbs
Wiping away crumbs takes a few seconds, but it’s dangerous. This is because it requires a driver to take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road.
If you have been injured by a distracted driver, you should consider your options to receive just compensation.
