Things To Avoid Distractions While Driving
For years, distracted driving has been one of the most common causes of car accidents. With the tips, you can learn how to avoid distractions while driving.
We understand it can be hard to avoid distractions while driving, but it’s important that you stay focused on the road at all times. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that over 600,000 drivers used their phone while driving
Tech company Zendrive estimates this number to be much higher and through their study estimated that almost 70 million Americans use their phones while driving.
Cellphones are just the tip of the iceberg. Eating, doing makeup, and fiddling with electronics also contribute to distracted driving statistics-and accidents. Read this article to learn how to avoid distractions, so you don’t become a statistic on the road.
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Don’t Play With Your Phone
We know you’re tempted to send a tweet, take a selfie, or record yourself singing to your favorite tunes while driving, but just remember, this is a very bad idea.
In 2016, the NHTSA reported that over 3,000 traffic deaths were caused by distracted driving.
While playing with your phone, Zendrive estimates that you spend almost 2 minutes with your eyes off the road. When traveling at high speeds, that’s the length of a football field. This dangerous behavior leads to many traffic accidents and could get you arrested or ticketed if a cop sees you.
The best thing to do is stay off your phone while driving. You can check your social media when you’re parked and off the road.
As far as playing music, sync your phone to your car and choose your playlist before you head out onto the road.
Many new cars have media systems that automatically sync your phone to the media player. They also let you control the phone through the interface.
That way you can answer calls and select songs without taking your eyes off the road.
Try Not To Eat And Drive
Eating is another big driving distraction that most people can’t seem to shy away from. Fast food seems to cater to people who eat and drive with drive-thru windows.
But, eating can get messy and be juggling a burger, fries, and your steering wheel may not end well.
When you get your hunger cravings, pull off to the side of the road into a parking lot and eat.
If you don’t have the time, then create a meal plan where you schedule your meal times around your driving duties.
Don’t Travel With Too Many Passengers
Teenagers aren’t the only people that let their friends distract them while driving.
Many adults let crying babies, nagging spouses, and other passengers get them worked up while driving.
If you have to drive with a young baby or child, bring someone with you that can sit in the backseat and tend to the child’s needs.
In general, don’t travel with too many passengers. It’s hard to filter noise out when you’re stuck in the car with lots of people.
At some point, you will get distracted. Try to limit your trips to two passengers whenever possible.
Stay Off The Road When You’re Drowsy
Falling asleep at the wheel is every driver’s nightmare, but it happens more often than you think it does. In 2015, the NHTSA revealed that over 800 driving fatalities were caused by drowsy drivers.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, drowsy drivers cause taxpayers over $100 billion per year.
If your distracted driving has led to a collision, then refer to a car accident attorney like Zane’s law.
To prevent drowsy driving, get an adequate amount of sleep the night before your driving excursing. If you can’t, carpool with some friends or take public transportation.
When you start to feel sleepy behind the wheel, pull off to the nearest parking lot and rest for at least 20 minutes.
Do Your Makeup Before Getting In The Car
You may have to wake up a half an hour earlier each morning to get it done, but please avoid doing your makeup while driving.
Applying mascara or eyeliner while driving 55 mph is an accident waiting to happen.
You will crash into another car and poke your eye out at the same time.
Makeup is meant to be applied while in the comforts of your own bathroom.
Always Block Out Distractions While Driving
For more information on traveling, continue reading our blog to learn the best tips and tricks to stay safe while on the road.
