Distracted Driving
Distracted driving leads to over two million accidents annually in the United States alone. Of those accidents, over half are caused because of reported cell phone usage. Therefore, becoming a safer driver seems to be of the utmost importance as technology continues to evolve and become essential to daily life. Specifically, it is necessary to focus on ways to reduce distractions when driving.
- Put Your Phone Away
The first thing every driver should do when entering their vehicle is to put their phone away. Phones are the leading distractions and causes of accidents. If you cannot avoid looking at your phone while driving, turn it off and place it in a glove compartment or somewhere inaccessible. If you must use your phone while driving, it is best to use a hands-free device, although that still isn’t ideal.
- Avoid Multitasking
Next, avoid multitasking. Don’t try looking at maps or adjusting radio stations while driving. When your vehicle is in motion, you need to keep focused on the task at hand, as any little distraction can lead to a collision. Looking away from the road for even a second can have dire consequences.
- Don’t Reach
Any experienced driver has a disadvantage when it comes to distractions because they are often comfortable and overconfident in their abilities. This false confidence can lead to reaching for items in the back seat or things that may have fallen on the floor. Remember, taking your eyes off the road for even a second can lead to a collision.
- Limit Distractions
Loud radios, complicated conversations, and unruly passengers are all forms of distractions. Anything that deters from focus and reflexes should be limited and avoided. If you have a hard time focusing because of loud noises, then consider turning the radio off while you drive. If you can’t talk and drive, then don’t. If you have passengers who can’t respect your space, then don’t let them ride in your car.
- Set Rules to Ensure Safety for Kids and Pets
Next, your vehicle should have rules for all passengers — especially kids and family pets. For example, pets should have a specific location in the car that can secure them. Children should be strapped in according to the regulations of your state. Essentially, you want to reduce the level of movement in the vehicle.
Distracted driving leads to accidents. However, since you can only control your own actions and not those of other drivers, some accidents are unavoidable. Therefore, if you are in an accident, consider contacting a car accident lawyer, like a car accident lawyer in Milwaukee, WI.
Thanks to Hickey & Turim Attorneys at Law for their insight into some ways to reduce distracted driving.
