Which of the following is NOT a non-driving activity distraction?

Which of the following is NOT a non-driving activity distraction?

• A. Texting
• B. Talking to passengers
• C. Grooming
• D. Looking through rearview mirror

Answer: (D)

Looking through the rearview mirror is primarily considered a driving activity distraction because it directly pertains to vehicle operation and awareness on the road. When a driver is looking through the rearview mirror, they are typically checking for vehicles or obstacles behind them, which is essential for safe driving practices such as changing lanes or reversing. On the other hand, the other activities listed—texting, talking to passengers, and grooming—are considered non-driving distractions as they divert the driver's attention away from the act of driving itself. Texting involves taking hands and eyes off the wheel, talking to passengers requires mental focus and may easily lead to inattention regarding the road, and grooming activities can take both attention and hands away from driving. Therefore, looking through the rearview mirror directly engages the driver’s responsibilities and situational awareness, distinguishing it from the other distractions.

Looking through the rearview mirror is primarily considered a driving activity distraction because it directly pertains to vehicle operation and awareness on the road. When a driver is looking through the rearview mirror, they are typically checking for vehicles or obstacles behind them, which is essential for safe driving practices such as changing lanes or reversing.

On the other hand, the other activities listed—texting, talking to passengers, and grooming—are considered non-driving distractions as they divert the driver's attention away from the act of driving itself. Texting involves taking hands and eyes off the wheel, talking to passengers requires mental focus and may easily lead to inattention regarding the road, and grooming activities can take both attention and hands away from driving. Therefore, looking through the rearview mirror directly engages the driver’s responsibilities and situational awareness, distinguishing it from the other distractions.