Which practice is primarily associated with distracted driving?

Texting while driving is primarily associated with distracted driving due to the significant cognitive, visual, and manual distractions it introduces. When a driver texts, they divert their attention from the road to their phone, which can impede their ability to react to obstacles, maintain lane position, and observe traffic signals and signage. This multitasking considerably increases the risk of accidents, as it involves reading and composing messages while attempting to control the vehicle.

While using hands-free devices, adjusting mirrors, and eating can also distract a driver, they do not involve the same level of engagement with a device that requires focused attention, such as texting. Texting involves both the mental distraction of thinking about the message and the physical distraction of using a device, making it one of the most dangerous practices associated with distracted driving.