April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month
New technology in
vehicles is causing us to become more distracted behind the wheel than ever
before. According to the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Distracted driving is dangerous, claiming
3,477 lives in 2015 alone.”
Types
of Distracted Driving
Visual distractions - includes reading a text message or programming your phone’s or
vehicle’s navigation system.
Manual distractions - occur when you take your hands off the steering wheel to dial your
phone, eat, drink or groom.
Cognitive/mental distractions - is when a driver's mind isn't focused on driving, which includes
talking on your phone or daydreaming.
Before you drive:
Driving always requires your full attention. Here are some
distracted driving solutions provided to help make your drive safer:
- Plan your Route- Make adjustments before your get underway. Set up your GPS, seats, mirrors, climate controls and sound systems before hitting the road. Decide on your route and check traffic conditions ahead of time.
- Put your Cell Phone Away – Cell phones should be out of your reach. Reduce the temptation by keeping it out of sight, like in the trunk or in a bag, and turn the ringer off. Most smartphones can now be setup to send an auto reply when you receive a text or phone call.
- Eating and Drinking – It's best to avoid eating and drinking while driving. If you need to take a drink, wait until you are stopped at a red light.
- Personal Grooming – Do your personal grooming at home, not while driving a vehicle!
