What constitutes distracted driving?

Distracted driving includes any activity that diverts attention from driving, and texting or eating while driving are prime examples of this behavior. These actions can significantly impair a driver's focus on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. Texting specifically involves cognitive, manual, and visual distractions: it requires mental engagement to compose a message, physical engagement to type, and visual engagement to read the screen. Eating while driving can also lead to taking one or both hands off the wheel and losing concentration on road conditions and potential hazards.

While listening to music, talking to passengers, and using a GPS device may somewhat distract a driver as well, they are generally considered less dangerous compared to more attention-consuming tasks like texting or eating. Music can even help some drivers stay focused and engaged, and conversing with passengers is often part of normal driving behavior. Thus, texting or eating while driving clearly represents a significant distraction that directly impacts driving safety, highlighting the importance of avoiding such activities while operating a vehicle.