What is Distracted Driving?

Anything that diverts the focus from driving is distraction driving. It includes texting, calling, eating, drinking, switching a radio or GPS, and even dreaming. Distracted driving is a leading cause of road accidents in the US, making up about 8% of all crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Distracted Driving Hazards

Careless driving is very dangerous. According to an estimate by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an average of nine people is killed in a distracted driver-involved crash in the US and over 1,000 other are injured every day.In addition, distracted driving can cause property damage, fines, as well as legal liabilities. It also threatens the driver and all those who dare cross its path, especially children.

How to Overcome Distractions

Put Your Phone Away

Mobile phone is one of the major distractions while driving. Driving and texting or using social media not only distract you from the road, but also free your hands from the wheel. This is preventable by either switching off the phone completely or using the silent mode and keeping it out of reach such as in glove compartment or back seat.

Set the GPS Before You Go

If you are using the GPS for navigation, enter your destination and review the route before you start driving. The practice of confusing directions is a significant distraction while one is driving and as a result, possibility to an accident is increased.

Avoid Eating and Drinking

Eating or drinking as a driver is not just a form of distraction but also limits your control of the vehicle. Make sure that you finish all your meals or their accompanying snacks before you are behind the wheels.

Take Breaks When Needed

Long drives are tiring and may end in drowsiness which will also affect the drivers’ concentration and response times. Find a place to get off the road to rest, relax, stretch, and refocus every so often.

Stay Focused

Alertness and focus while driving are a necessity. Focus your attention on driving first and foremost, not on music or podcasts. If you get the feeling of drowsiness, then pull over to a suitable location and take a short break.

Be a Responsible Passenger

If you are a passenger, do not disturb the driver. Propose the driver to assist in navigation or in another type of work that will divert his attention.

Prepare Beforehand

Do not leave mirrors, seat and climate control settings when driving on the road. This will enable you to become more relaxed and not to have to adjust these settings while driving.

Educate Yourself and Others

Apprise your friends and family about the risks of distracted driving. Many states have passed laws to combat distracted driving. In Washington state, you can be fined for using a cell phone, eating, or putting on make-up while you are behind the wheel. By creating awareness, and enforcing these types of laws, we can greatly reduce the incidents of collisions caused by inattentive drivers.

Conclusion

Distracted driving is a hazard and possibly life-threatening behavior. These tips help drivers to avoid accidents and make the road safe to themselves and other road users. Always be alert, focused and never get too distracted while driving. Turn all the months into “Distracted Driving Awareness Month” and keep learning about the safety of driving to us and others.

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