Over the course of the day, distractions can happen at anytime. One of the most common times distractions occur is when operating a car.
According to Distracted.Gov, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices at any given moment across America. Engaging in visual-manual sub tasks associated with the use of hand-held phones (reaching for a phone, dialing, and texting) increased the risk of getting into car wrecks by three times.
However, texting and driving is not the only way to become distracted while driving. There are many other ways such as:
- Eating and drinking
- Grooming
- Adjusting the GPS, radio, or climate controls
- Reading
3,154 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2013.
(According to Distracted.Gov)
Eliminating the possibility of being distracted while driving is essential to preventing car wrecks and keeping you and others safe. So here are 10 steps to keep in mind to prevent distractions while driving in Fairmont, West Virginia, and surrounding areas:
- Before getting behind the wheel, take care of anything that would prevent you from devoting your full attention to driving.
- If another activity demands your attention, pull off and stop your vehicle in a safe place. To avoid temptation, power down devices before heading out.
- If you have passengers, enlist their help so you can focus safely on driving.
- Put any electronic devices aside. DO NOT use cell phones or hand held devises while driving.
- Fasten children or pets properly before you start driving. If you need to attend to them, pull off the road before reaching into the backseat. This is a distraction and can cause you to lose control of the car.
- Plan to eat before or after your trip. If you choose to eat while driving, avoid foods that are difficult to manage.
- Complete all dressing and personal grooming (applying make-up, brushing hair) before you get in the car.
- Secure loose items that could get knocked over during the trip in order to prevent temptation to reach for them.
- Make adjustments to your GPS, seats, mirrors, climate controls, and sound system BEFORE getting on the road.
- Be an alert and active driver. Use your mirrors to scan the road for other cars and pedestrians. DO NOT let anything divert your attention.
Travis Miller Attorney at Law
While you may take the proper steps to prevent distractions while driving, that doesn’t mean everyone will. If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, call today to get a free consultation.
Thanks for reading,
Travis