You don’t need to be texting at high speed to put yourself at risk. These days, many drivers use their phones for everything from music and navigation to checking quick messages while sitting at a red light. It might feel like a harmless habit, especially in slow traffic or on familiar roads. But even small moments of distraction can have serious consequences.
The link between mobile phone use and reduced driving safety is well-documented, and yet it remains one of the most common behaviors on the road. Whether you’re glancing at a text or swiping through playlists, your attention is shifting away from what really matters—what’s happening in front of you.
Distraction Comes in More Than One Form
Mobile phone use creates three types of distraction: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distraction is when your eyes leave the road. Manual distraction is when your hands leave the wheel. And cognitive distraction happens when your mind drifts away from driving.
A quick text, a map adjustment, or even reading a notification can involve all three. Even hands-free devices don’t eliminate distraction entirely. You may not be touching your phone, but if you’re mentally focused on a conversation or reacting to an alert, you’re still not giving full attention to the road.
The Real-World Effects
Every second matters when you’re behind the wheel. If you take your eyes off the road for just five seconds while driving at 55 mph, you’ll cover the length of a football field without looking. That’s enough time to miss someone braking in front of you, a pedestrian stepping off the curb, or a change in traffic lights.
Data shows that drivers using phones are significantly more likely to be involved in rear-end collisions, side swipes, and single-vehicle crashes. The risks are even higher in cities like Martinez, where traffic patterns can shift quickly and pedestrians often share space with vehicles.
Young Drivers and Higher Risk
Younger drivers are especially vulnerable to distraction from phones. With so much of daily communication happening through texts and social media, the temptation to stay connected at all times can override caution. Studies show that teens and young adults are more likely to use their phones while driving and are also more likely to be involved in distraction-related crashes.
But no age group is immune. Even experienced drivers can fall into the habit of checking their phones out of boredom, routine, or overconfidence in their multitasking ability.
Hands-Free Isn’t Risk-Free
Many drivers believe that using a Bluetooth headset or voice-to-text feature makes phone use safe. While it’s true that hands-free setups reduce manual and visual distractions, they still come with cognitive distractions. Engaging in a conversation (even one that’s hands-free) causes your brain to tune out what’s happening on the road.
It’s the same reason talking to a passenger feels different. A passenger can see traffic conditions and pause the conversation when needed, while a person on the other end of the phone can’t.
Habits Are More Helpful Than Rules
Most states, including California, have laws against holding your phone while driving. But avoiding tickets shouldn’t be the only reason to put the phone down. The best approach is building habits that prioritize focus and safety.
Start by setting up your navigation and music before pulling out of the driveway. Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature or install a safe driving app that silences alerts and sends automatic replies while you’re on the road. If something urgent comes up, pull over in a safe location and respond when it’s safe to do so.
Hagin’s Automotive – Keeping Martinez Drivers Safe on the Road
At Hagin’s Automotive in Martinez, we believe safe driving starts with smart decisions. Our job is to keep your vehicle in top condition, but your safety behind the wheel depends just as much on how you drive.
Staying off your phone and focused on the road can prevent accidents, protect others, and help you arrive safely every time. If your vehicle needs service or safety feature updates, come visit us today and drive with confidence.