With many anti-distracted driving campaigns on the books, more and more people are familiar with just how dangerous it can be to drive while distracted. However, many think simply putting down their phone is enough to ensure they are not distracted. While doing so is an important part of decreasing car accidents caused by distracted driving, there are other steps that can be taken as well.
- Do Not Drive While Tired
- Keep Your Radio Off or Set to a Single Station
- Do Not Talk on the Phone
- Stop Driving Hourly
- Do Not Blame Games Behind the Wheel
Make sure that you are getting plenty of sleep before driving. Did you know that most accidents occur within a mile of home? Even if you are heading out on a long trip, get plenty of rest. If you are very tired, it is tempting to say, “I’m just going down the street,” but that is where you are most likely to be in an accident, to cause a pedestrian accident, or otherwise encounter danger.
In addition to texting while driving, changing the radio station while driving is one of the most common distracted driving activities. In fact, if you do not listen to any radio station at all, then you will be more focused on the road and less likely to be involved in a car accident.
Yes, this includes talking on a hands-free device. While people believe that these are safe, the truth is that studies consistently show that talking on the phone – even with no hands involved – splits a person’s attention and reduces their focus on the road. Do not talk on your phone while driving unless you are dealing with a true emergency.
If you are driving more than an hour, stop every hour to take a five-minute walk. Stretch your legs. Use the bathroom. This can help keep you awake and prevent you from becoming distracted by any physical ailments you may have.
When you are riding with your family on a long trip, you may be tempted to play an innocent game, such as the license plate game in which you try to find a license plate from every state. As the driver, you should not engage in this or other games. Your job is to stay focused on the road and ensure that your family gets there safely.
Of course, there is nothing you can do to reduce your chance of being involved in an accident to zero. This is why we recommend that if you are in an accident, you contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
