Which distraction is considered a manual distraction?

A manual distraction refers to any activity that requires a driver to take their hands off the steering wheel. Adjusting the radio involves physically manipulating knobs or buttons, which constitutes a manual task that diverts attention away from driving. This action can affect the driver's ability to maintain control of the vehicle and respond to changing traffic conditions.

Texting while driving, while also dangerous, primarily involves cognitive distraction, as it requires mental focus on the message being composed or read, and it may also necessitate visual distraction. Talking with a passenger involves conversation but does not necessarily remove hands from the steering wheel, and daydreaming is a cognitive distraction as well without any physical component distracting from driving tasks. Understanding the difference helps drivers recognize how their actions can impact their driving safety.