Distracted driving is a large cause of auto accidents. A distraction can lead drivers to look away from the road or take their hands off the wheel.
There are ways drivers can reduce the number of distractions caused while driving. Here’s what you should know:
1. Turn off your phone
Phones are often the main cause of distracted driving. To avoid distractions caused by phones, it may be best to leave them at home. However, that’s often not a preferred choice by most people. Therefore, people may benefit from turning off their phones while driving so that no texts or calls distract the driver. Alternatively, drivers can silence their phones or turn on do-not-disturb mode if they are expecting an emergency call.
2. Eat while parked
Many people will eat while driving after picking up food from a fast-food restaurant. Eating can lead to auto accidents because it often requires the use of one or both hands to unwrap packages or hold drinks. Drivers practicing safe driving can benefit from eating while their vehicle is parked, whether this happens at a restaurant or in a business parking lot.
3. Adjust your radio before you drive
People often don’t realize that distractions can come pre-installed in vehicles. In other words, a radio can be just as distracting as a phone or meal. Drivers changing to a preferred radio station often have to take a hand off the wheel. Then, drivers may pay more attention to the song playing than the road ahead.
4. Keep pets in the back seat
Drivers may need to consider restraining their pets while driving. Pets often don’t understand that their owners need to concentrate while driving. Because of this, a pet may climb on top of a driver’s lap or lick at their face. This can create a visual distraction for drivers and cause accidents.
Drivers who practice safe driving can’t account for the actions of others. A driver who’s a victim of distracted driving may need to learn how they can be compensated for their injuries and losses.
