What might a driver do to minimize cognitive distractions?

Planning routes before starting the drive is an effective way to minimize cognitive distractions. When drivers familiarize themselves with their route in advance, they significantly reduce the need to engage with navigation aids or make last-minute decisions while on the road. This pre-planning allows drivers to concentrate on the driving task itself, enhancing their ability to respond to changing road conditions and traffic.

In contrast, driving without planning routes can lead to confusion and increased cognitive load, as drivers may have to constantly think about where they are going or how to navigate. Asking passengers for directions can also divert the driver’s attention away from the road, as their focus may shift to interpreting directions. Using a map while driving can be particularly distracting, as it takes visual and cognitive resources away from observing the surroundings, potentially leading to hazardous situations. Thus, planning routes before setting off is the most effective strategy to keep a driver's attention where it belongs—on the road.