Eating while driving is seen as a way to save time. Instead of sitting down to eat, people choose to do so while going to work, school or an errand. But eating can distract a driver, increasing their chances of causing an accident.
Here is why eating while driving is so dangerous:
Swerving
If a driver drops food they may try to pick it up to avoid wasting it. This means they will take one hand off the wheel and their eyes off the road. Accordingly, they might swerve. If you are driving near this driver or overtaking them, they can run you off the road.
Loss of control
Some foods, such as burgers, require both hands to eat. Therefore, the driver will take their hands off the wheel, which can reduce their response times, particularly when road conditions change – they unexpectedly encounter obstacles like debris, potholes, animals, or even traffic.
A driver taking their hands off the wheel to wipe crumbs can also lead to losing control.
Further, greasy foods like French fries, pizza or chocolate can lead to a sticky/slippery steering. Thus, despite having both hands on the wheel, it can be challenging for the driver to make quick turns.
Decreased visibility
Drinking while driving can lead to decreased visibility. Some drinks are usually packed in large cups or mugs. Thus, a driver will be blocking their view every time they drink. A costly mistake can happen in those few seconds of not seeing the road.
Eating while driving is as dangerous as any other distracting behavior on the road. If you are injured by such a driver, you should get legal help to understand your options and rights.