Distracted driving is a major cause of car accidents and a growing problem in today’s society. With the prevalence of smartphones, social media, and other handheld devices, drivers are more distracted than ever before. In this blog post, we’ll explore the dangers of distracted driving and provide tips on how to stay focused on the road.
Distracted driving is any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. This can include texting, talking on the phone, checking social media, eating or drinking, applying makeup, and even daydreaming. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed the lives of 2,841 people in 2018 alone.
One of the most common forms of distracted driving is texting while driving. According to the NHTSA, sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. It’s no wonder that texting while driving is six times more likely to cause a car accident than driving under the influence of alcohol.
Other forms of distracted driving can be just as dangerous. Talking on the phone, even with a hands-free device, can take a driver’s attention away from the road and increase the risk of an accident. Eating or drinking while driving can also be hazardous, as it requires the use of one or both hands and can cause a driver to take their eyes off the road.
So, what can you do to avoid distracted driving and stay safe on the road? Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Put Your Phone Away
The best way to avoid distracted driving is to put your phone away while you’re behind the wheel. Turn it off, put it in the glove compartment, or store it in a bag or purse that’s out of reach.
- Use Voice-Activated Controls
If you need to make a call or send a message while driving, use voice-activated controls instead of typing on your phone. Many smartphones have this feature built in, and it can help you stay focused on the road.
- Pull Over to Eat or Drink
If you need to eat or drink while driving, pull over to a safe location first. Don’t try to balance a burger or a cup of coffee on your lap while driving.
- Set Up Your GPS Before You Start Driving
Before you start driving, set up your GPS or navigation system so you don’t have to fiddle with it while you’re on the road. If you need to make changes to your route, pull over to a safe location first.
- Stay Focused on the Road
Above all, stay focused on the task of driving. Avoid daydreaming, don’t get too caught up in conversation with passengers, and keep your attention on the road ahead.
According to Cohen Legal, If you are involved in a car accident due to distracted driving, it’s important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. There are many qualified car accident lawyers who can help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation for your injuries and other damages.
In conclusion, distracted driving is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences. By putting your phone away, using voice-activated controls, pulling over to eat or drink, setting up your GPS before you start driving, and staying focused on the road, you can help prevent car accidents caused by distracted driving. And if you are involved in an accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance from a car accident lawyer.