Everybody agrees that distracted driving is a major problem on America’s highways. However, not everybody recognizes what distraction looks like. For example, most American drivers would agree that a teenager attempting to post a picture to social media while driving is very thoroughly distracted.
However, not all distraction originates from a cell phone. Did you know that eating while operating a moving vehicle can increase your risk of crash or near crash by almost 40%? Eating while driving is one of the most common and dangerous forms of distracted driving in the country.
What foods should I avoid?
In reality, eating or drinking anything at all while driving is not a good idea. However, some foods and beverages are more likely to be present at a crash site then others. Some of the most common foods and beverages found at crash sites include powdered donuts, barbecued food, pizza, tacos, chili, soups and coffee.
However, correlation is not causation. Simply swapping out a lunchtime taco for a bowl of spaghetti behind the wheel is not going to make much of a difference. In fact, it is probable that the hapless driver chose one of the aforementioned foods to nosh on because it was a “finger food.”
What can I do to avoid eating while driving?
Many Americans end up eating breakfast in their car in the morning on the way to work. Setting your alarm clock a mere 10 minutes earlier could give you enough time to enjoy a more leisurely breakfast at home as compared to trying to eat it in your car.
