As most drivers know, there are many factors that can distract you from concentrating when you are driving, both externally and internally, which can lead to dangerous conclusions.
In recent years, the most reported distraction has been the dangers of talking on your mobile phone whilst driving. In the UK, the law states that it is illegal to drive whilst using a mobile phone, with police ever being able to prosecute drivers when they are using a hands free devise if they think their driving performance is poor whilst using one.
A recent study by esure however has looked at another dangerous distraction that many believe to be harmless, but in reality is the reason for one in seven road accidents or near misses - backseat drivers.
This new study reveals how backseat drivers’ comments have increasingly become the cause of many road accidents, with partners being the worst offenders. This is becoming an increasing risk for many drivers, mainly because they underestimate the effects that distractions have on their driving. The study also shows that men are the worst culprits to take their eyes off the roads for a chat. But even when drivers keep their eyes on the road, backseat comments can cause distractions which may lead to the driver not spotting hazards on the road.
The study highlighted other top distractions for drivers, which included eating, drinking and changing music, but driving with other passengers was seen as a bigger distraction by those who took part in the study, with backseat comments topping the bill (51% of motorists citing this as the worst distraction).
What’s even more surprising is that even though this study showed that most people recognised backseat drivers as a distraction, almost all (91%) motorists who took part in the study admitted to being backseat driver themselves when travelling in another car!
You may find it difficult to manage distractions whilst driving. Some distractions are unavoidable, but there are some precautionary steps you can take to reduce the risk of becoming distracted. For example, you need to recognise what is causing the distraction. If it’s a backseat driver, you need to ensure they are aware that they are causing a distraction. You may think you are being rude to the passenger, but this is a much better outcome than being involved in a road accident.
Also, if you are aware that you are a backseat driver, like many who took part in this study admitted to being, it’s essential to learn to respect the driver of the vehicle and understand that you are more than likely going to be more of a hindrance rather than a help with your comments. Distractions are everywhere for motorists, so you should not add to these with your ‘helpful’ comments!
There is currently no law against back-seat drivers, but there are laws that focus on not engaging in distractive activities. Motorists can be charged with careless driving or failing to be in proper control of their vehicle. In other words, a backseat driver might not receive 3 points on their licence, but their comments may lead to the driver getting into trouble with the law if they become too distracted.
Above all, remember to simply focus on your driving. This needs to be a priority for all drivers, even if you’re driving on a route you regularly take. It may seem a pretty obvious, but many motorists forget this, which makes them victim to distractions like backseat drivers’ criticisms. And remember, if backseat drivers persist with their comments, you can always kindly remind them where the nearest bus stop is!
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