Breaking Distracting Driving Habits
Distracted driving is a leading cause of road accidents in America. About nine people die every day from the mistakes of distracted drivers, while another 1,000 are injured. With these figures rising yearly, finding long-lasting solutions to this problem is imperative.
The NSC conducted a survey in 2016 to determine the various distracting activities drivers occasionally practice. The results were as follows:
- Making or receiving phone calls with handheld devices – 19 percent
- Making or receiving phone calls with hands-free devices – 51 percent
- Reading or sending text messages – 32 percent
- Reading or sending emails – 23 percent
- Reading or posting on social media – 23 percent
- Internet searches – 21 percent
- Watching or posting videos or photos – 19 percent
- Watching a movie – 14 percent
- Making a video call – 14 percent
How to Avoid Getting Distracted as You Drive
Every second counts in driving. Shifting your focus from the road for five seconds while driving at 55 mph could result in a severe accident. You may notice potential hazards once it is too late, leaving no reaction time.
Here are some ways to minimize distracting activities while driving.
Never Use a Phone While Driving
Avoid using your mobile phone while driving; if you must, ensure you pull over before doing so. Contrary to popular belief, hands-free sets are also a source of distraction. In fact, the American Automobile Association (AAA) has proven that drivers stay distracted for about 27 seconds after a phone call.
Do Not Eat or Drink While Driving
Eating or drinking while driving might force a driver to take one or both hands off the wheel. Therefore, plan your trips to ensure you eat before or after the journey. It is also advisable to take light meals before driving to prevent fatigue.
Do Not Multitask
The human brain cannot efficiently handle several tasks at a time. Since driving requires complete attention, avoid engaging in other activities on the road. This includes conversing with other vehicle occupants, replying to emails, and listening to audiobooks.
Set Everything Before Going Out
Ensure your GPS, music, mirrors, and seats are correctly adjusted before leaving. This will prevent you from taking your eyes off the road while choosing the correct route or changing your sound systems.
Avoid Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving involves driving while sleepy or tired. It accounts for more than 100,000 accidents yearly and is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Ensure you follow state rest regulations to avoid feeling tired or sleepy on the road.
Keep Your Eyes on the Road
Compared to passengers, drivers do not have the luxury of gazing at beautiful scenery or billboards by the road. They should instead focus on the road while occasionally checking their mirrors to confirm the position of other motorists.
Key Takeaways
Distracted driving effects could range from accidents, property damages, personal injury claims, and even fines. With this issue becoming a growing concern, it is recommended that drivers take all measures possible to avoid being tempted by distracting activities.
Distracting tasks could cause a driver to exceed the speed limit, cause a rear-end collision, or run red lights. Distracted driving affects not only individuals but also organizations. In the long run, it could hurt an organization through compensation claims, lower vehicle value, and negative publicity.
“Drivers should be educated on the dangers and preventive measures they can take to avoid distracted driving. Additionally, there should be strict penalties for non-compliance with the established protocol. We can help reverse this trend with these measures in place,” says attorney Rich Godshall of Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers.
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