Make Sure New Media is Not a Source of Distracted Driving

HIV.gov encourages the use of new media to respond to public health issues, and to meet our audiences’ needs, we offer content through social media . Given the potential hazards, we want to share additional research on the effects of distracted driving by Dr. Bryan ReimerExit Disclaimer , a research scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s AgeLab.

If we look at our phones while driving—even if it’s just a quick glance—our eyes are not on the road. Reimer points out, however, that even when we are looking at the road, we are still very—even dangerously—distracted. “Eyes on the road does not equal mind on the road. While physically engaging with your phone is itself a distraction, the content of the communication is what causes the “cognitive distraction” even when your eyes are on the road. The more emotionally charged the content, the more distracted you’ll be,” explains Reimer. And text messaging isn’t the only culprit. All communications mediums—talking, texting, social media, web browsing—have the capacity to distract.

In June, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood issued a “Blueprint for Ending Distracted Driving ” that offers a comprehensive strategy to address the growing use of mobile phones while driving. Learn more at www.distraction.gov.

Let’s consider what we can do to keep safe while on the road. Reimer advises his loved ones to “be aware of the traffic environment before you pick up the phone or engage in any other distracting activity.” Do tell the person you’re talking to that you can’t talk at the moment and need to focus on driving. Finally there is no safe way to text and drive.” For new drivers, Reimer recommends they avoid using the phone and any other distractions while driving for at least a few years.

At HIV.gov our mission is to promote HIV prevention, care, and treatment through the use of new media, which we believe also means supporting our Federal partners who are working to make the roads safer. Consider taking the Department of Transportation's pledge to commit to distraction-free driving and following through with it. It may be tough to stick to that pledge, but you, your fellow drivers, and your friends at HIV.gov will be glad you did.