In a second of time and at 30mph a vehicle will cover a distance of around 13 metres. This second can pass without incident or add to the estimated statistic that around 75% of accidents or near accidents are caused by the contribution of distraction, inattention or fatigue.

Most drivers, at some time in their journey, will encounter a situation that requires an immediate response. Looking ahead and evaluating the speed, direction and proximity of the vehicle are all dependent upon how we process the visual and auditory input. Risk, assessment and corresponding required actions in response are expected in all driving situations. Being alert and aware at all times of the ongoing road conditions is mandatory for the avoidance of collisions with other road users.

Distraction – Object and Societal

Smartphones, satnavs, food and drink, books, cigarettes or e-cigarettes, audio and heating controls are all distractions. Other objects can be listed but the result of objects being accessed is a secondary activity to the primary activity of driving. Objects range in complexity, where the driver may be prepared to risk with the engagement. Also, the willingness to engage in a conversation or activity with passengers is a societal distraction where the risk is dependent upon the intensity of the discussion.

Inattention – Voluntary and Involuntary

Putting makeup on, shaving, looking at the scenery can cause seconds of inattention. One of the most common voluntary inattentive actions on motorways is the act of accident voyeurism. The collective effects of this are easily identified with traffic slowing down and congestion building up. Audible input from passengers, even if not engaged in the conversation changes the concentration process. Loud or unexpected noise from the audio system, suppresses and limits the attention to the surrounding traffic noise. A vehicle horn, when used to warn of danger or an emergency vehicle’s siren, can go unnoticed.

Fatigue – Self-inflicted and Circumstantial

Fatigue does not just happen, warning signs are often given but even so drivers continue with the journey instead of taking the necessary break periods required. The Working Time Directive is in place to ensure that professional driving duties conform to the regulated period allowed for those activities. But late nights and early starts, heavy meals and medication, even monotony caused by the journey route,  journey time and light conditions are contributors to fatigue.

The primary activity of driving should be done when the driver is alert and in control. A required response but delayed by just a few seconds can have devastating results. Distraction, inattention or fatigue are a serious contribution to risk and it is incumbent upon all drivers, whether for work or domestically to be aware of those risks.

For businesses and organisations, analysis of endorsement data is vital. Careless driving endorsements, an example being CD10 Driving without due care and attention, are prime examples that can be linked to distraction, inattention or fatigue. Running an analysis report in Licence Link to find drivers with endorsements of CD10 just takes a few seconds, seconds of time, that can contribute to the reduction of future road accidents.