Once you’ve passed your test, driving can start to feel like second nature. Plus, you’ve got other things to think about like studying, work … shopping to do, plans for the weekend – not to mention that new filter you want to try on snapchat.
Such a hectic calendar can make it tough to keep your mind (and eyes) on what’s in front of you. But did you know that thinking about these things behind the wheel can reduce your ability to drive?
A recent study found that just 14% of 18-24 year olds actually concentrate on their driving1 . That’s only 1 young driver in of a group of 7 mates.
And staying focused can be even harder on routes you know like the back of your hand, whether it’s the meander to your mate’s house or the commute into college. You know every bump and every bend; you even know where that pothole is that they’ve still not got rid of! These roads are your bread and butter so it’s easy to let your driving take a back seat. Just because it’s the same the road doesn’t mean it’s the same journey, though. Actually, most accidents happen on the most familiar routes.
Not concentrating may just lead to a bump in your bonnet – but it could have a much bigger impact than that. So as your confidence builds, make sure your concentration doesn’t lapse.
[1] https://www.theaa.com/about-us/newsroom/mental-load-on-drivers