How is distracted driving best defined?

Distracted driving is best defined as driving while performing two activities simultaneously. This definition encompasses a broad range of behaviors that can divert attention away from the primary task of driving, such as using a phone, eating, or managing multiple passengers. When a driver divides their focus between operating the vehicle and another activity, their reaction times and situational awareness are compromised, increasing the risk of accidents.

Listening to music or engaging with passengers can be part of the driving experience for many, and while they may divert attention slightly, they do not necessarily involve a significant reduction of attention to driving unless they require active involvement. Likewise, using navigation apps can also be a distraction; however, it specifically refers to a particular activity rather than the more general concept of multitasking that the chosen answer emphasizes. Therefore, the key to understanding the definition of distracted driving lies in the idea of performing two activities at once, which fundamentally captures the essence of multitasking while operating a vehicle.