Adult Distracted Driving Program
Frequent distractions affect driving ability by removing the driver’s attention from the primary task of driving. Some of these distractions include interaction with passengers or pets, cellular telephones (hands-free and handheld), texting, eating, smoking, personal grooming, reading, radio, electronic equipment, and external visual distractions.
A significant obstacle in combating distracted driving is the lack of accurate statistics. The existence of distracted driving behaviors may not leave any evidence and can only be determined by witness statements or involved parties. Drivers may be hesitant or unwilling to acknowledge their own distracted driving behaviors when questioned by crash investigators, afraid they’d be found at fault.
Driving a vehicle is a task requiring the continual monitoring of the roadway and surroundings. Anticipating the actions of other drivers is critical when operating a motor vehicle. A distracted or inattentive driver will have a reduced ability to perceive visual cues, and as a result, will experience a delay in the cognitive decision-making process necessary for safe driving.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) implements the Adult Distracted Driving program specifically focused on distracted, inattentive driving and how it presents a significant danger to all motorists. Program activities include driver education, outlining the risks of distracted driving, and the steps people must take to be safer drivers. This program also includes an enforcement and educational campaign designed to bring distracted driving behaviors to the attention of the motoring public.
CHP officers host a one hour distracted driving presentation made possible by the Training, Research and Education for Driving Safety program and the California Office of Traffic Safety, that focuses on the scope of the problem, risks of distractions, the law, consequences, and how we can take action. These presentations are hosted at local CHP offices and out in the community. Officers also participate in community events to spread the traffic safety message to community members. Additionally, CHP officers participate in distracted driving enforcement operations where they go out on patrol and search diligently for distracted driving violations.
For further information regarding our program and presentation, please contact your local CHP Area Office.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.