At 55 mph, taking your eyes off the road for just 5 seconds is like driving across an entire football field with your eyes closed. Each year, thousands of US motorists are killed and hundreds of thousands more are injured due to distraction-related crashes.
Thankfully, there are things we can do to help educate drivers and make the roads safer for you and your loved ones. Here are 7 of the most dangerous driving distractions, plus tips on how best to avoid them.
Silencing your phone and putting it out of reach will ensure that you're not tempted to look at it. If it's out of sight, it's out of mind. Get the facts on cell phones and distracted driving.
Trying to change songs while driving is extremely dangerous. Instead, have a playlist, put on a CD, or program your radio presets before you start driving so finding the right music is never an issue.
It's best to commit directions to memory before you take off. If you have to look at GPS, program the route before you start driving, and turn voice commands on so you look at it as little as possible.
If you're a passenger, make sure nothing is distracting the driver, including yourself. Offer to help them with anything that might be diverting their attention from the road.
Driving while drowsy can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Take a nap or a break and get some caffeine into your system. Coffee, energy drinks, soft drinks, and chewing gum are easy ways to help keep you alert on the road.
Whether you have to shave or put on makeup, you're better off doing it before you go or once you've arrived.
Eating food while driving can be a huge distraction (not to mention a big mess). It's better to eat before or after you drive.
The information we share on our site is intended to serve as a general overview. Please refer to your policy or contact your local independent agent for specific coverage details.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). “Distracted Driving.” United States Department of Transportation, accessed April 9, 2024.
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