Why is distracted driving particularly dangerous?

Distracted driving is particularly dangerous because it delays a driver's reaction time in high-risk situations. When a driver is distracted—whether by a mobile device, adjusting controls, or interacting with passengers—their attention is diverted from the road. This means they may not respond quickly to changes in traffic conditions, such as a sudden stop of the vehicle in front of them or a pedestrian unexpectedly crossing the street. Reaction time is critical in preventing accidents, and even a fraction of a second can be the difference between a safe maneuver and a collision.

While distractions can also impact other aspects of driving, such as turn signal use, visibility, and fuel consumption, the immediate safety risk arises from the impaired ability to react swiftly and appropriately to immediate hazards on the road. Hence, the impact on reaction time is a core reason why distracted driving is considered particularly dangerous.