How does multitasking while driving affect safety?

Multitasking while driving significantly increases the risk of accidents because it divides a driver’s attention among multiple tasks, leading to decreased awareness of surroundings. When a driver attempts to engage in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio while operating a vehicle, their focus is spread thin. This reduction in focus can cause delays in reaction time when responding to sudden changes on the road, such as pedestrians crossing or other vehicles making unexpected maneuvers.

Moreover, the cognitive load increases, and the driver's ability to process visual and auditory information is compromised. Studies have shown that even hands-free devices do not eliminate the risk, as the mental engagement still distracts from driving. Therefore, multitasking poses a serious danger, making it crucial for drivers to minimize distractions to maintain optimal safety on the road.