According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, distracted driving is becoming one of the most dangerous health concerns. Distracted driving is whenever a driver becomes distracted in any way, whether that’s from using cell phones, eating, talking to other passengers, and even road rage. All these things put you and the drivers on the road around you at a risk of being involved in an accident, which may cause injuries and even death.
The best way to avoid being involved in an accident is to keep your full attention on the road at all times. This is easier said than done when there are many things that fight for our attention, especially when we’re behind the wheel. But there are certain things you need to remember in order not to become a distracted driver statistic.
Keep Your Hands on the Wheel
When you were first learning how to drive, you were taught to keep your hand at the 10:10 position on the wheel. It is important not to let your hands become distracted doing other things, like eating or drinking, smoking, and especially not texting or using your phone. Make sure your seat belt, mirrors, and everything you need in order to drive safely are in the correct position before you take off. This will ensure that you won’t be distracted by seatbelts and mirror adjustments, and that you will keep your hands on the wheel at all times.
Keep Your Eyes on the Road
Focus on the car in front of you and on your surroundings. Many things will try to get your attention while you’re behind the wheel, such as having to change the radio station, or needing to adjust the navigation system. You depend on a lot of tools to help you drive, but these tools should not distract your attention from the road. You should also not look at other passengers in the vehicle. Conversations should be as distraction-free as possible.
Keep Your Mind Focused on Driving
While you are physically and visually focused on driving, it is important to keep your mind on the road to. Studies show that talking to passengers can be just as distracting as texting. You might be tempted to sing and dance while you’re driving, but this also distracts your mind from being focused on your surroundings.
It is perfectly fine to enjoy your drive with other passengers in the vehicle, and it’s also okay if you depend on tools like your GPS to get you to places. However, you should only engage in other activities so long as they do not distract your attention from the road. Always keep safety a priority when behind the wheel to avoid being involved in a car accident.