Distracted driving has become a significant concern in recent years, with the rise of mobile technology and other distractions in our daily lives. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents and fatalities on the road. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of distracted driving and how to avoid it.

What is distracted driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the road. This can include texting, using a mobile phone, eating, drinking, adjusting the radio, or even talking to passengers. The NHTSA identifies three types of distractions: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distractions take your eyes off the road, manual distractions take your hands off the wheel, and cognitive distractions take your mind off driving.

The dangers of distracted driving

Distracted driving is a dangerous behaviour that can have severe consequences. It significantly increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road.

How to avoid distracted driving

There are several steps that you can take to avoid distracted driving:

Put your phone away – One of the main causes of distracted driving is mobile phone use. Avoid using your phone while driving, and if you need to make a call or send a text, pull over to a safe place first.

Avoid eating and drinking – Eating and drinking while driving can be a significant distraction. Finish your food or drink before getting behind the wheel.

Use voice-activated controls – Many modern cars come equipped with voice-activated controls for music, navigation, and other features. Use these instead of manually adjusting your settings while driving.

Keep your eyes on the road – Avoid looking at billboards, electronic signs, or anything else that may take your eyes off the road.

Limit distractions – Try to minimize distractions inside the car, such as loud music, rowdy passengers, or pets. Make sure everyone is buckled up, and children are safely secured in car seats.

Plan ahead – Plan your route and any stops you need to make before you start driving. This will reduce the need to use your phone or GPS while on the road.

In conclusion, distracted driving is a dangerous behaviour that can have severe consequences. By following the steps outlined above, you can reduce your risk of becoming distracted while driving and help to make the roads safer for everyone. Always remember, safety should always be your top priority when behind the wheel.