Distracted Driving: How to Prevent And Reduce Accidents

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents today, and it’s something that’s highly preventable. It involves anything that could take a driver’s attention off the road, even for a second, which can cause them to miss something that’s happening around them or lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident. It is important for all drivers to understand what distracted driving is and how to prevent it to help reduce accidents. 

Avoid Using the Phone While Driving

It is never a good idea to use a phone while driving, as it can be distracting, even if the driver is using a hands-free device. The effort put into the phone call can take away from the driver’s attention on the road, which can end up causing an accident if they don’t see a vehicle stopped in front of them or they start to swerve off the road. When phone calls are necessary, it’s still better to pull over before calling. For example, pull over to a safe location before calling 911 after a car accident to provide help for the drivers involved without putting anyone else at risk. 

Never Eat or Drink While Driving

Drivers may be in a hurry to get where they’re going, but it’s not a good idea to eat or drink while driving. Eating while driving increases the potential for someone to be involved in an accident, as their full attention isn’t on the road and they don’t have both hands on the wheel. Instead, it’s a better idea to pull over somewhere to stop and have a bite to eat before getting back on the road. This helps prevent spills, missing something that happens in the road, or swerving while trying to reach for more food or a drink. 

Avoid Playing with the Radio or Navigation System

Whether the vehicle is an older one with just a radio or it’s a newer one with an entertainment system included, it’s not a good idea to touch anything while driving. Drivers should avoid changing radio stations, using the navigation system, or adjusting the climate control while they’re behind the wheel. It’s a much better idea to get everything set up before starting to drive, but if changes are needed, either pull over briefly or have a passenger handle it to prevent an accident. 

Avoid Reaching for Anything While Driving

Many people toss things they need on the passenger seat if there isn’t anyone sitting there so their belongings are within easy reach when they get to their destination. If they slam on their brakes or make a turn a little too fast, these items can go flying. Even if it causes something to spill in the vehicle or something may break, it’s not a good idea to reach over to grab it while driving. Instead, if the driver needs to reach anything in the vehicle, it’s better to pull over, reach the item, and then drive again. 

Distracted driving is highly preventable, but it’s still one of the leading causes of accidents today. When driving, avoid doing anything that can take your attention off the road, even if you think it’s okay or it’s only going to take a second. It’s always safer to pull over to check the directions or answer a text, and it’ll help keep you safer on the road.