The Dangers of Distracted Driving: How Driving Lessons and the Safer Drivers Course Can Help
Distracted driving has long been a significant concern on Australian roads, causing 
numerous crashes, injuries, and fatalities every year. Unfortunately, the rise of distractions, particularly mobile phones, has significantly increased the risks on the road. In New South Wales alone, distracted driving has been a contributing factor in about 15% of road fatalities. This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of addressing this issue effectively. This blog aims to explore the dangers of distracted driving, the efficacy of driving lessons in mitigating these dangers, and the benefits of learner drivers enrolling in the NSW Safer Drivers.
What Constitutes Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving involves any activity that diverts your attention away from the primary task of driving. Distractions while driving can be categorised into three main types:
- Visual Distractions: Taking your eyes off the road.
- Manual Distractions: Taking your hands off the wheel.
- Cognitive Distractions: Taking your mind off driving.
Distraction Types and Their Impact
To break down the complexity of driving distractions, let’s look at a table that categorises different types of distractions, their causes, associated dangers, and preventive measures.
| Distraction Type | Cause | Danger | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Phones | Texting, Calling | High | Hands-free devices, Do not disturb mode |
| Eating/Drinking | Convenience | Moderate | Eat before driving, use travel mugs |
| Conversations | Passengers | Moderate | Limit conversations, focus on the road |
| Music/Radio | Entertainment | Low to Moderate | Pre-set stations, voice-activated controls |
| Navigation | GPS Systems | Moderate | Voice guidance, mounting device at eye level |
How Can Driving Lessons Help?
One of the best ways to combat distracted driving is through comprehensive driving lessons. If you’re searching for a “driving school near me,” you’re on the right track to becoming a more responsible and focused driver. Driving lessons offer much more than teaching you how to operate a vehicle; they educate you on the principles of safe driving. They also teach you to understand the responsibilities and obligations of being on the road.
Searching for professional “driving instructors near me” will help you find a good driving instructor who will instil safe driving habits. They’ll also educate you about the specific laws and penalties associated with distracted driving in New South Wales. There are driving schools in Sydney who offer defensive driving courses that can help educate learners about distracted driving. Once particular driving school in Sydney that stands out is Learn Drive Survive® Driving School. Learn Drive Survive® is one of the best driving schools in Sydney who offer the NSW Safer Drivers Course.
Introducing the NSW Safer Drivers Course
For those who have completed 50 actual driving hours, the Safer Drivers Course offers an invaluable learning experience. Unlike regular driving lessons near me, this course combines classroom learning and practical in-car coaching to provide a holistic education in safe driving. Courses are run weekly across Sydney and across New South Wales. This course aims to educate learner drivers about managing risks effectively, including distractions and improving your observation skills.
The Safer Drivers Course goes beyond standard driving lessons near me by incorporating real-life scenarios and risk management into its curriculum. It aims to make you aware of how easily distractions can take over and provides you with strategies to manage these effectively.
How the Safer Drivers Course Educates Driving Distractions
The Safer Drivers Course is specially designed to tackle the issue of distracted driving and how to manage these distractions effectively, ensuring they don’t compromise on safety. The course also helps learners develop skills in other areas such as speed management, gap selection & decision making, hazard awareness and safe following distances.
Why the Safer Drivers Course is a Must for Every Learner Driver
If you’re on the hunt for “driving lessons near me” and are serious about becoming a safe and responsible driver, the Safer Drivers Course is a must. Not only does it make you more aware of the risks associated with distracted driving, but it also equips you with the skills to manage these distractions effectively. On top of that, once you complete the course, you will receive an additional 20 hours towards your logbook!
Where to From Here?
Distracted driving is a pressing issue that needs immediate attention. If you’re planning on searching for “driving lessons near me,” consider going a step further and enrolling in the Safer Drivers Course. This course equips you with the skills and knowledge to manage distractions effectively, making you a safer, more responsible driver.
To book a Safe Driver Course, simply click here and select your preferred location. Choose a suitable date and complete the registration. Alternatively, you can call 1800 898 969 to assist you in booking a course.