How can using a navigation app distract a driver?

Using a navigation app can distract a driver primarily because it requires visual attention to the screen. When a driver looks at the navigation app for directions, they take their eyes off the road, which is a significant form of distraction. The driver must read the map or the displayed information, which diverts their attention away from the essential task of driving safely. This shift in focus can lead to delayed reaction times and an increased risk of accidents, especially in situations that require quick decision-making on the road.

While features such as recalibration, spoken directions, and real-time traffic updates are useful for navigation, they may not inherently distract a driver as much as the need to visually engage with the app does. The act of glancing at a display for instructions is where the primary risk of distraction occurs.