The brain is not "programmed" to use a phone while driving.

Driver distraction can have extremely serious consequences. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.25 million people die in traffic accidents each year, and 94% of those deaths are due to driver error.

Experts have identified four main causes of distraction for drivers:

1.Visual distractions– things that cause drivers to take their eyes off the road they are traveling on, such as checking their phone or reapplying makeup.

2.Distractions caused by sound– Excessive noise, such as phone conversations or loud music in the car cabin, can prevent the driver from hearing signals from other vehicles, such as ambulance sirens.

3.Distractions due to activityHolding food or drinks can also prevent the driver from concentrating on the steering wheel.

4.Psychological distractions– Fatigue and health problems are also factors that reduce your ability to concentrate while driving.

Statistics on the prevalence of distracted driving:

390m:The distance you cover in 14 seconds at a speed of 100 km/h.

94%:The percentage of fatal accidents caused by driver error.

37%:Concentration is reduced when talking on the phone while driving.

14 seconds:Average time to take a selfie

1: The amount of work the brain can focus on processing at one time.

Driving requires a high level of concentration.

Every job requires a certain level of concentration from the brain. Compared to relaxing on the beach, driving demands intense focus because dangerous situations can arise at any time.

Matt Gerach is one of Ford's leading professional driving instructors in the Asia-Pacific region. He spent 10 years at Ford training top engineers to become leading test drivers at Ford Australia.

“With my experience training hundreds of students over the years, I’ve realized that even driving on the simplest roads requires 85% of the driver’s concentration. It’s not difficult to text, take a picture, or talk to a fellow driver while driving. However, that’s precisely when accidents can happen, especially when your brain can’t fully focus on driving.”

A recent Ford survey revealed that in the Asia-Pacific region, 22% of young women admitted to taking photos while driving. This is a worrying trend, considering that at 100 km/h, a car can travel 390 meters in just 14 seconds—enough time to take a selfie. 54% of drivers said they couldn't break the habit of using their phones while driving. 59% of survey participants also admitted to using their phones while driving or at traffic lights, even though they knew it was a traffic violation.

As a car testing expert, Gerlach had to put cars under the most extreme conditions, even exceeding the needs of ordinary drivers. Those participating in the test drives were also trained to use their full mental concentration during driving and testing the car's performance.

“When you’re devoting 85% of your attention to driving, it’s difficult to focus on anything else. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just a beginner, you need to understand the level of concentration required behind the wheel. Always stay alert while driving; only then can you drive safely,” Gerlach emphasized.

How can I drive more focused?

Here are some tips to help make your driving safer:

1. Focus entirely on controlling your vehicle. Experts have provided data proving that even a momentary lapse of concentration while driving can easily endanger pedestrians, other road users, and oneself.

2. Expand your field of vision while driving. Gerlach suggests: “People often don’t have a comprehensive view when driving. They tend to focus on the car directly in front of them instead of checking the traffic ahead. Try to expand your field of vision to the front and sides of your vehicle so you can be aware of unexpected situations.”

3. Don't drive when you're not alert: Health issues always affect your concentration while driving. Make sure you stay alert and vigilant so you can react more quickly and accurately while driving.

This article is part of Ford Motor Company's multimedia communication series aimed at raising traffic safety awareness among drivers. For more information, please contact [https://www.facebook.com/FordVietnam/]. Information about courses and articles on traffic safety is fully and comprehensively updated at [link/website].www.drivingskillsforlife.com

The Thanh