Driving is a standard part of many people’s lives with most of us spending a decent part of our day getting from one place to another. Although the feeling of driving is ordinary, there are still plenty of risk factors associated with what is a daily routine for many. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and it is more important this year than ever as the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates a 9% rise in motor-vehicle deaths for 2021. With many heading back on the road and into the office as a result of the pandemic ending, it seems more important than ever to practice safe driving procedures to ensure you make it to your destination carefully.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is defined as doing any other activity while driving that takes your attention away from focusing on the road. According to Loughlin & FitzGerald, an injury law firm in Connecticut, distracted driving is a form of driver negligence that contributes to a significant number of auto accidents. Some common examples include using your phone in any way, eating while driving, and even simply daydreaming or losing focus.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that over 3,000 people die each year, and hundreds of thousands are injured. With such a large impact across the nation, it’s easy to see why this is an issue for everyone. The main types of distractions while driving are:
- Visual: whenever you take your eyes off the road
- Manual: any moment that you take your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: whenever you take your mind off driving
Tips to Reduce Distractions While Driving
Don’t use your phone while driving: Put the phone down when driving or better yet put it in your glove compartment. Sending a message or making a phone call can wait and if it’s an absolute emergency then make sure to pull over before you use your phone. Additionally, getting caught on your phone is an easy way to get a ticket.
Try not to eat and drive: Many of us are guilty of this and even if you’re extremely hungry it’s best to wait. Try to plan ahead of time with the option of eating before or after your trip. Taking your eyes or hands off the road can result in a higher risk of a motor vehicle accident so save your snacks and meals for later.
Make sure you’re not too tired to drive: Whether you’re driving late at night or early morning, there are always situations resulting in drowsiness while on the road. Take the time to make sure you are well-rested and good to drive. Being drowsy while driving or nodding off can greatly increase your chances of getting into a crash. In some cases, it may be best to pull over instead of continuing to drive any further.
Don’t multitask while driving: This can take many forms like doing make-up or even just searching for a music or radio station. Although it may seem like a good chance to do multiple things on the way to your destination, it’s better to wait and focus on one driving only. Instead, get your things done before you drive or right when you get to your destination. That way you’re being courteous to other drivers and even yourself too.
Stay focused on the road: This one may seem simple but spending an extended amount of time in the car can lead some to place their minds elsewhere. Avoid daydreaming or losing focus when driving and potentially think of pulling over for a break if you’ve been driving for quite a while. Taking your mind off the road can lead to reduced reaction times which can be serious if other drivers make an error as well. Make an effort to focus while driving to ensure the safety of you and your passengers.
Driving is a standard part of most of our lives and with many heading back on the road, it’s important to be cautious for you and your loved ones. By reducing distractions, we can be in a better position while driving to minimize any potential consequences of any motor vehicle accidents. Spread the awareness this April and even take the NSC Just Drive Pledge to cement your intentions in keeping the roadways safe this spring.