What is an effective method for handling distractions while driving?

Limiting interaction with passengers is an effective method for handling distractions while driving because it helps maintain your focus on the road. Passengers can often engage in conversations that may divert your attention away from driving tasks, such as monitoring traffic and road conditions. By minimizing these interactions, you reduce the likelihood of your attention being pulled away from what is crucial—safely operating the vehicle.

The other options can introduce distractions rather than mitigate them. Focusing on a phone for directions can lead to visual and cognitive distractions, which can compromise reaction time and awareness. Keeping the audio system turned up can obscure or drown out important sounds from the environment, such as sirens or honking horns, which are essential for safe driving. Only responding to texts when stopped might seem safer, but it still encourages the habit of checking phones, which can lead to distractions even when you are back in motion.