The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has become a major concern on the roads today, and it is a leading cause of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from the road while driving.
This includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, applying makeup, adjusting the radio or navigation system, and even daydreaming. In this post, we will explore the dangers of distracted driving and offer some tips to help you stay focused while driving.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
The dangers of distracted driving cannot be overstated. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021 alone. That's 8.2% of all fatal crashes that year. Additionally, the NHTSA reports that 1.3 million people were injured in crashes involving distracted driving in 2019.One of the reasons why distracted driving is so dangerous is that it reduces a driver's reaction time. When you're distracted, you may not see or react to hazards in time to avoid a collision. This can result in serious injuries or fatalities, not only for you but for other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the road.
Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving
The good news is that there are steps you can take to avoid distracted driving. Here are some tips:
Put away your phone: The most important thing you can do to avoid distracted driving is to put your phone away while driving. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a safe location first.
Plan your route ahead of time: Enter your route into a GPS system ahead of time and use the voice direction option. This will help you avoid the need to look at your phone or a map while driving.
Finish grooming and eating before driving: Make sure you finish shaving, eating, or applying makeup before getting behind the wheel. This will help you avoid distractions while driving.
Secure loose items: Secure any loose items in your car, such as your purse, phone, or water bottle. This will help you avoid the need to reach for them while driving.
Avoid multitasking: Avoid multitasking while driving. Focus solely on the task of driving and avoid distractions such as talking on the phone, texting, or browsing the internet.
Take breaks: If you're feeling tired or fatigued, take a break. Get out of the car, stretch, and take a short walk to refresh your mind and body.
Conclusion
Distracted driving is a serious problem that can lead to accidents, injuries, and fatalities. By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of becoming a distracted driver. Remember, when you're behind the wheel, your focus should be solely on driving. Avoid distractions and stay safe on the road.If you have been in an accident, please contact Sandel Law today.