distracted driving

noun

1. driving a vehicle while engaging in an activity that has the potential to distract the driver from the task of driving.

   Bans on cell phone use in cars will help to reduce the dangers of distracted driving.

Other Word Forms

• distracted driver noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of distracted driving¹

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

The nationwide surge in pedestrian deaths has been attributed to factors including distracted driving, speeding, and road rage that emerged particularly during the pandemic period, suggesting that behavioral interventions alongside infrastructure changes may be necessary for comprehensive safety improvements.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

When legislators adopted the current state law prohibiting drivers from “operating” a cellphone while driving, they did so “to reduce distracted driving resulting from advancements in modern phones and to encourage drivers to keep their eyes on the road,” the court of appeals ruled.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“I’ve met too many families that have an empty seat at the dinner table because of distracted driving. I’ve met too many people with injuries that they’re going to live with for the rest of their lives because they were hit by a distracted motorist,” Shapiro told WILK-FM radio in Pittston during an interview last month.

Read more on Seattle Times

“But there’s no doubt, no doubt, that we know the No. 1 issue here is speeding, distracted driving and driving under the influence,” Omishakin said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Amid the increase in citations for speeding, distracted driving, unsafe turns, unsafe lane changes, and seat belt and equipment violations, there has been a 15% decline in crashes, Young said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times