As Distracted Driving Awareness Month comes to a close, it’s important to remember that the importance of safe driving should be emphasized year-round. Distracted driving can be deadly, and it’s up to all of us to take steps to prevent it.
Here are some tips to avoid distracted driving:
1. Stay off your phone:
We know. The temptation to check your phone while driving can be strong. Especially if you have a job or lifestyle that requires you to use your phone frequently. Distractions can easily arise, and it can be tempting to check your phone or make a call, but doing so can put you and others on the road in danger. No matter how busy you may be, getting on your phone while driving is dangerous and can have serious consequences.
Try these strategies to prevent picking up your phone while driving:
-
- Buying a Car Phone Mount
- A phone mount lets you keep your phone in a secure and visible location while driving, reducing the need to look down or hold your phone. Many phone mounts are designed for hands-free use, allowing you to make calls, send texts, view navigation, change your music, or use voice commands without having to fumble around with your phone.
- Buying a Car Phone Mount
-
- Connecting To Bluetooth
- Bluetooth is a great feature because it lets you use your phone hands-free while driving. Through your car stereo, it allows you to make and receive calls, use voice commands, and control your music without taking your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road. This means you can keep your focus on the road while still staying connected.
- Although some models of cars don’t have built-in Bluetooth (typically, if a vehicle was made after 2004, then it is likely to have it), using an external Bluetooth or hands-free devices while driving is another great way to stay safe on the road. These devices could be anything from a Bluetooth earpiece to a hands-free device that you can purchase for a minimal cost.
- Connecting To Bluetooth
-
- Tune Out The Distractions
- One way to do this is by enabling the “Do Not Disturb” feature on your phone before your trip. This feature blocks all calls and notifications while you’re driving, so you can focus on the road without the distraction of your phone.
- Many newer smartphones have a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature built in that can automatically turn on when it detects that you’re in a moving vehicle. This feature can be customized to allow certain contacts to break through the “Do Not Disturb” mode in case of an emergency.
- Tune Out The Distractions
2. Plan your route ahead
To avoid using your phone for navigation while driving, it’s essential to plan your route ahead of time. Ensure that you know your destination and the best route to get there before you start driving. This way, you won’t need to rely on your phone for directions, which can be distracting and increase the risk of an accident.
However, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to navigate while driving, either pull off to a safe area or use the voice command features on your phone for assistance.
3. Avoid multitasking:
To ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road, it is important to avoid multitasking while driving. Activities such as eating or applying makeup can be distracting and take your attention away from driving, which increases the risk of an accident. While these activities may not be classified as distracted driving in the same way that using a phone or electronic device is, they still divert your attention away from the road and can have serious consequences. Therefore, it is best to focus solely on driving and avoid multitasking to minimize the risk of accidents.
4. Set a good example:
Setting a good example for younger drivers is crucial when it comes to preventing distracted driving. As an adult, you can lead by example by avoiding distracted driving behaviors yourself, such as using your phone while behind the wheel. By doing so, you not only protect yourself but also demonstrate responsible driving habits to others, particularly younger drivers who may look up to you.
Check out our blog post on ways to discuss the hazards of distracted driving with your kids here.
The dangers of distracted driving cannot be overstated. Whether it’s texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, any distraction can significantly increase the risk of a serious accident. By implementing the tips mentioned in this blog post, we can all do our part to make our roads safer and prevent needless tragedies. Let’s commit to staying focused and attentive behind the wheel, not just during Distracted Driving Awareness Month, but every time we get behind the wheel. Remember, safe driving is everyone’s responsibility.
