While distracted driving is commonly attributed to electronic device use, whenever a driver participates in a non-driving activity, it has the potential to distract them from the primary task of driving. Any task that takes your eyes and mind off the road is considered to be a distraction. It only takes a second to be distracted and it can pose a serious threat to your safety as well as those around you – inside or outside your vehicle.

A BCAA distracted driving survey of British Columbians with a valid drivers license who drive regularly found that 93% of BC drivers consider themselves to be focused drivers, yet they are also engaging in the following actions which can take their attention off the road:

The Risks

Drivers engaged in the following distractions are more likely to be in a crash or near collision event compared with non-distracted drivers. Taking your eyes off the road for even 2 seconds doubles the risk of an accident.