Distracted driving isn’t just dangerous—it’s deadly. According to AAA, nearly 3,500 people die each year in the U.S. as the result of distracted driving. In a busy world filled with cellphones and other fancy gadgets, it’s increasingly common for drivers to get distracted while on the road, putting themselves and others at risk. Use these 10 tips from AAA to help you keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road:
- Fully focus on driving. Do not let anything divert your attention, actively scan the road, use your mirrors, and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Put aside your electronic distractions. Don’t use cellphones while driving–handheld or hands-free–except in absolute emergencies. Never use text messaging, email functions, video games or the internet with a wireless device, including those built into the vehicle, while driving. Every day, motorists who read or send a text while driving take their eyes off the road for up to 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the entire length of a football field with your eyes shut.
- Store loose gear, possessions and other distractions that could roll around in the car so you don’t feel tempted to reach for them on the floor or the seat.
- Make adjustments before you get underway. Address vehicle systems like your GPS, seats, mirrors, climate controls and sound systems before hitting the road. Decide on your route and check traffic conditions ahead of time.
- Finish dressing and personal grooming at home–before you get on the road.
- Snack smart. If possible, eat meals or snacks before or after your trip, not while driving. On the road, avoid messy foods that can be difficult to manage.
- Secure children and pets before getting underway. If they need your attention, pull off the road safely to care for them. Reaching into the backseat can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
- If you have passengers, enlist their help so you can focus safely on driving.
- If another activity demands your attention, instead of trying to attempt it while driving, pull off the road and stop your vehicle in a safe place.
- As a general rule, if you cannot devote your full attention to driving because of some other activity, it’s a distraction. Take care of it before or after your trip, not while behind the wheel.
