DISTRACTED DRIVING

Adjusting Vehicle Controls

1. Introduction

Modern vehicles come with many controls—AC, radio, mirrors, seat adjustments, navigation screens, windows, wipers, and more. While they improve comfort and convenience, adjusting these controls while driving can easily divert a driver’s attention. Even simple tasks like turning up the music or changing temperature can lead to dangerous distractions.

2. How Adjusting Controls Distracts a Driver

Adjusting vehicle controls creates a mix of distractions:

• Manual Distraction

A hand leaves the steering wheel to turn knobs, press buttons, touch screens, or adjust seats or mirrors.

• Visual Distraction

The driver glances away from the road to find the right control or confirm the change.

• Cognitive Distraction

The driver’s mind focuses on comfort adjustments instead of road conditions.

3. Common High-Risk Adjustment Behaviors

Drivers frequently adjust:

• Radio/entertainment systems
• Air conditioner or heater
• Touchscreen menu options
• GPS or navigation systems
• Seat position
• Side mirrors or rear-view mirror
• Windows or sunroof
• Wiper settings
• Headlights or interior lights

Even small adjustments can interrupt focus at the wrong moment.

4. Why Adjusting Controls Is Dangerous

This type of distraction leads to:

• Reduced steering control
• Delayed response to sudden hazards
• Swerving or drifting out of lane
• Loss of vehicle balance when turning while adjusting
• Taking eyes off the road for several seconds
• Overcorrecting the wheel after a distraction
• Missing road signs, signals, or braking vehicles

Touchscreens are especially risky—they require more visual attention than traditional buttons.

5. Realistic Examples

Example 1:
A driver looks down to adjust the AC and rear-ends the car ahead when traffic slows suddenly.

Example 2:
A driver scrolls through radio stations and drifts into the next lane.

Example 3:
A driver enters a destination into the GPS while moving and fails to see a pedestrian crossing.

6. Prevention Strategies

Smart driving habits can greatly reduce this distraction:

Before Driving:

• Adjust mirrors, seat, AC/heater, and radio before starting the trip
• Set GPS destination while still parked
• Pre-select music playlists

During Driving:

• Avoid using deep touchscreen menus while moving
• Use steering-wheel control buttons if available
• Ask passengers to adjust controls for you
• Pull over if an adjustment requires more than a quick touch
• Use voice commands (if your car supports them)

General Rules:

• If it takes more than one second to adjust, don't do it while moving
• Keep your eyes on the road and return your hand to the wheel immediately

7. Key Takeaway

Adjusting vehicle controls while driving can easily lead to visual, manual, and mental distraction. Even quick adjustments reduce awareness and slow reaction times. Safe drivers always prepare their controls before moving and minimize adjustments while on the road.