Did you know distracted driving is a leading cause of auto accidents? It absolutely is, and over the past two decades, the problem has only gotten worse. With the rise of fast food, smartphones, and cars that have more features than an entertainment center, it is easier than ever to get distracted on the road. So here are a few tips to make sure you don’t end up an unfortunate statistic.
Don’t Eat & Drive
This one is a bigger problem than you might think. Everyone believes that they can handle a burger or cup of coffee while driving, but a single splatter of ketchup on a dress shirt or a hot coffee spilled on a lap means that your attention is anywhere but on the road ahead. Avoid this distraction by simply waiting until you arrive at your destination before you tear into those chicken tenders.
Put Your Smartphone Away
This is probably the biggest distraction for most drivers. A new email or text might seem important, but texting and driving is responsible for a huge percentage of distracted driving accidents. Solve the problem by simply putting your phone in the passenger seat or glove box before starting your trip, and retrieving it afterward. No text is worth an auto accident.
Don’t Let Your Car Distract You
Today’s vehicles are more sophisticated than ever, and feature tons of bells and whistles that can distract drivers. Before leaving your driveway, set your GPS, adjust your radio, and fiddle with all the other doodads. Set everything as you want it and commit to not fiddling with things until you arrive at your destination. Even if the radio plays a song you don’t like, avoid the temptation to mess with the dial.
Arrive Alive
Avoiding these distractions while driving might seem overly cautious or a hassle, but trust us – your car and passengers will thank you. Keep your eyes on the road and arrive alive.
