What is a visual distraction when driving?

A visual distraction while driving refers to anything that diverts your attention from the road and requires you to take your eyes off of it. Gazing at GPS navigation falls squarely into this category, as looking at the screen can lead you to miss important cues on the road, such as traffic signals, pedestrians, or other vehicles.

Using a GPS often requires a driver to take their focus off the driving environment to read directions or adjust settings, increasing the likelihood of an accident. It's crucial for drivers to stay focused primarily on the road ahead and use tools like GPS systems in a way that minimizes their visual distraction, such as adjusting the device before starting to drive or using voice commands.

In contrast, other options involve different types of distractions. For instance, a passenger's conversation and listening to the radio may be considered auditory distractions, as they engage your hearing rather than your vision. Checking the rearview mirror is also essential for safe driving, though it requires a brief glance away from the road, it is part of the necessary actions to maintain awareness of the surroundings.