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What are the 4 types of distractions while driving?

I like to eat breakfast and listen to podcasts while driving to work. I feel really focused, but my coworker told me that those are both types of distractions while driving. Does it count as distracted driving if I’m not on my phone and keep my eyes on the road?

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R.E. Fulton · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It makes sense to want to make the most of your commute! However, your coworker is right. There are four main types of distractions while driving:
  • Visual: Anything that causes you to take your eyes off the road
  • Auditory: Any noise that takes your concentration away from driving
  • Manual: Anything that forces you to let go of the wheel
  • Cognitive: Anything that takes your mind off of the road
Eating breakfast on the go requires at least one hand off the wheel, making this a serious manual distraction. It’s also likely to be a visual distraction, since most people instinctively look at their food while they eat.
Podcasts are a potential auditory distraction, but that doesn’t mean you have to drive in total silence! Just make sure the volume is at a reasonable level, and avoid headphones. However, podcasts can also be a cognitive distraction, so if you’re getting too entertained, it might be worth pausing until later.
Eat breakfast before you leave—and take a few minutes to download the Jerry app and save on car insurance! It takes about 45 seconds to get competitive quotes that could save you an average of $887 a year on your car insurance premium.
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