How to Prevent the Dangerous Habit
Everyone at some point in their lifetime will drive while distracted. Looking into the car next to you, you might see someone talking on a cellphone or texting, putting on eyeliner, and even eating a huge cheeseburger with fries in their lap. So, to avoid the danger of driving distracted before causing an accident, here are some tips to help you stay safe on the road and get you to your destination safe and sound.
Cellphones
Only use your cellphone in the car for emergency situations or if absolutely necessary. Even then, you should pull over on the right shoulder to make a call, as this keeps you and other drivers safe. Even hands-free devices can distract you from noticing visual and audio cues to avoid an accident. Also, social conversations should never be made while driving, and it is becoming increasingly prohibited in many jurisdictions. Remember, you could get a ticket for talking on a cell phone and driving.
Fatigue
If you’re tired, pull over. Studies show that driving while tired is just as bad as driving while intoxicated, as your reaction time is delayed in both instances. Driving while sleep-deprived increases your risk of crashing by nearly four times. When you’re tired, pull over at a rest area and take a quick nap. No place is so important that you have to risk your life to get there.
Passengers
Limit the number of passengers in your vehicle and the activity inside of it. Many states prohibit teens from driving with other teenagers in the car with them during their first few months of driving alone. Driving with friends can be dangerous because your focus more is likely on your friends and having fun when you should be concentraiting on what you’re doing.
Eating
Don’t eat while driving. Not only does it limit your range of motion when holding a food or beverage, but it can also distract you from the road if you make a mess. It also presents a choking hazard.
Multi-Tasking
Do not multi-task inside your moving car. The average American spends about 100 minutes inside a car per day, so many think this is the perfect opportunity to scratch a few things off their list of things to do, such as calling friends, looking for music, and even texting, but this is never safe to do.
Focusing on the road is the most important thing you can do, so you and your passengers can go to and from work or school safely. Keep these tips in mind the next time you’re in a vehicle, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings when operating your vehicle.
Think you or someone you know is in need of Behind the Wheel Training? Training Wheels is a Galloway driving school specializing in teaching new teen drivers how to stay safe on the road. For more information on our lessons, please click here.