Distracted driving has become a serious concern in recent years. It’s estimated that 10% of all fatal accidents are caused by distracted drivers. If you have ever been on the phone while trying to drive, then you know how difficult it can be not to get distracted and lose focus on the road ahead of you. That’s why it is important for everyone who drives (or rides in cars) to make sure they understand what is involved with being a safe driver and avoid distractions when behind the wheel or in their seats instead of riding shotgun. This article will cover some tips to keep yourself from getting distracted behind the wheel.
1) Don’t Use Your Phone While Driving
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised at how many people actually do it. Using the phone can take your eyes off of the road for several seconds at a time which is a dangerous habit to get into since you can get into an accident. If you ever find yourself in an accident when the other driver was distracted by their phone, then you have a good chance of winning the case if it goes to trial. However, you should call a distracted truck driving accident attorney if a truck driver is involved in your accident or a car accident attorney if a car is involved. If you must use your phone, then use a Bluetooth device to connect it with the car and make calls that way instead of using a handheld telephone.
2) Pull Over If You’re Feeling Drowsy
Some people will say that if you are tired then you shouldn’t be driving in the first place, which is true. However, if you are driving and start to feel tired or drowsy, then pull over. Don’t let yourself fall asleep behind the wheel because if you do, then there may be an accident. If you can pull off of the road somewhere safe (like a rest stop) and get some sleep, then do so before continuing your drive. Also, some people will bring a caffeinated drink with them to stay awake while driving, but don’t rely only on that to keep you awake. You should have some actual sleep before you continue your trip.
3) Limit Activity In The Car
This includes talking to other passengers (who aren’t driving), playing with the radio or AC/heater controls, etc. You should limit all of it since it can be distracting and take your focus off of the road. If you’re driving, then focus on driving and nothing else. If someone else is driving, then just sit back and relax instead of reaching for the controls or talking to others in the car. By limiting activity in the car, you will eliminate a lot of distractions and increase your overall safety while behind the wheel.
4) Don’t Eat And Drink While Driving
You should never eat or drink while driving. Even if you’re stopped at a red light, that doesn’t mean it is safe to reach for a burger or soda. If you get distracted for even a second and don’t pay attention to what you are doing, then there can be an accident right then and there. Even if it’s just a fender-bender or a hit to the back of somebody else’s car, accidents happen so don’t be careless. If you must eat or drink behind the wheel, then pull over somewhere safe (if you can) or wait until you get where you’re going.
5) Secure Your Pets In The Backseat
There are strict regulations when it comes to transporting animals in the car and you should always follow them if possible. This means that your pets should always ride in the backseat of the car. However, you should never have your pets out of their seat or crate while you are driving either. Cats and dogs can easily become distracted if they see something outside of the window that grabs their attention since they will want to try to get it. This can be extremely dangerous for them, you, and other drivers on the road. If your dog is larger, you should put a safety belt around its waist to make sure that it doesn’t get ejected from the vehicle in a crash.
If you follow these tips, then you will avoid becoming distracted and keep yourself and others safe while on the road behind the wheel. Overall, this is just a simple way to be more aware of your surroundings and what is going on around you when driving. These things might seem like common sense but we sometimes forget little things like this. Big accidents can happen at any time and for no reason, so always focus on driving safely and don’t take too many risks while behind the wheel.
Speaks from heart, always too passionate and driven by emotions. Spins the words with kindness & sharpness, intriguing your ever-inscrutable minds.
