Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving

There is a growing awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, but this has not prevented drivers from engaging in this unsafe behavior. It is estimated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that distracted driving is responsible for over 3,000 traffic deaths annually. You cannot drive safely unless you have your entire focus on the task of driving. While you cannot prevent other drivers from distracted driving, there are some steps you can take to avoid distracted driving.

Put Your Phone Away

The most important thing you can do to avoid distracted driving is to put your phone in your purse or glove compartment so that you are not tempted to use it while driving. Texting and driving is the most dangerous form of distracted driving because it takes your visual and cognitive attention off the road. Cell phones should only be used in cases of emergency, and when doing so, it is important to try and pull over to the side of the road.

Finish Personal Grooming Before You Get on the Road 

Make sure you fix your hair and makeup before getting behind the wheel. Applying makeup and performing other grooming tasks while driving can be very dangerous.

Adjust Your Position Before Driving

Before you start driving, make sure that your mirrors and seat have been comfortably adjusted. Making changes while driving can be distracting and take your attention off the road.

Don’t Eat Behind the Wheel. 

Take that meal home or pull over before you eat it. Balancing a burger and a drink can be very distracting and messy. Your hunger can wait.

Minimize Distractions in the Car

Try not to overload your car with passengers. Ask your passengers to keep the noise level down so that you can maintain your focus on the road. Explain to your children the importance of allowing the driver of a car to focus on their driving. If your baby or pet has become a distraction, pull over and take care of their needs before you drive any further.

Pull Over to Program Your Navigation System

One of the most important ways you can avoid distracted driving is to refrain from programming your navigation system while driving. Pull over or program the system before you get on the road. Taking your visual and cognitive attention off the road can be deadly.

Call Out Distracted Driving

If you are the passenger in a car and you notice that the driver is distracted, call them out on it. Tell the driver that you don’t feel safe when they are texting and driving and explain to them how dangerous it can be to drive distracted.

Contact a Trusted Car Accident Attorney

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a distracted driver, you should contact an experienced Tampa Bay car accident attorney. The attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have been trusted by over 20,000 clients to help them pursue compensation for their injuries. Contact us online or call us at 800-538-4878 to set up your free consultation today.