Does the National Highway Safety Administration consider visual and mental distractions significant in crashes?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) does indeed consider visual and mental distractions as significant contributors to road crashes. This recognition is based on extensive research and data analysis indicating that distractions can greatly inhibit a driver's ability to focus on the road and respond to changing conditions. Visual distractions divert the driver's attention away from the roadway, such as looking at a phone or adjusting the radio, while mental distractions can arise from tasks such as daydreaming or engaging in conversation, which can also reduce cognitive awareness. The prevalence of crashes due to these types of distractions has prompted the NHTSA to promote various educational campaigns and safety measures aimed at reducing the occurrence of distracted driving. This highlights the importance of driver awareness and the need for strategies to minimize distractions while driving.