With better weather, more drivers take day trips or plan weekend getaways but more drivers on the roads create more potential for distracted driving. Distracted driving can be more than making a quick call or firing off a quick text, it includes adjusting the navigation system, eating or anything that causes a lapse in focus. So here are some tips to help you minimize your distractions.
- Keep your cell phone in an accessible place but not in one where you can see it light up for every notification. If a call or text is important, pull over into a safe location before using your phone.
- Avoid eating while driving. Eating while driving may seem like a time-saver but it means you are paying less attention to driving. Also food related spills are a major distraction.
- Pay attention! Focus on driving instead of thinking about other things or “zoning out”. Pay attention to what is happening all around your vehicle, scan your mirrors and watch your speed.
If you cannot devote your full attention to driving because of some other activity, it’s a distraction. Take care of distractions before or after your trip, not while behind the wheel. Taking steps to reduce your distractions makes you a better and safer driver.
