Passengers are often regarded as a bonus to the driver. People encourage a friend or family member to come along for the ride to navigate or to help them stay awake. While the right passenger can perform such functions well, it’s essential to realize that passengers can often be more of a hindrance as they can distract the driver.
Here are ways passengers can distract a driver.
Backseat driving
Most drivers dislike being told how to drive, yet some people find it hard not to tell drivers what they should be noticing or how they should adjust their speed. Sometimes these pieces of advice are necessary – a passenger should speak up if a driver is doing something dangerous or irresponsible. But, if a passenger’s commentary annoys the driver, it could make them stressed and less able to focus on the road.
Wanting things
Kids are especially guilty of wanting things from drivers. A baby might cry when it feels its mum is ignoring it or when its toy has fallen. A toddler might nag at Dad to intervene when a sibling is being annoying, and a teen might utter “Boring” to tell their parent to change the music every time a song they don’t like comes on.
Entertaining them
Some people are great at telling stories, sharing gossip or making others laugh. While such passengers mean a driver is less likely to drift off to sleep, being too entertaining can also be problematic. If the conversation absorbs the driver, they will be less focused on the road.
Most drivers need to carry passengers some of the time. If you are involved in a collision with a driver who is carrying passengers, it is important to consider whether that driver was paying full attention to the road or was distracted by their passengers.