With everyone’s busy schedules distracted driving seems to be a common occurrence on our roadways. Driving always requires your full attention. Distracted driving is similar to impaired driving as the driver’s judgement can be compromised when they are not fully focused on the road. Distracted driving can lead to reduced reaction time, impaired judgement and the possibility of injury or death to the driver, passengers and/or others on or along the roadway.
Some solutions to prevent distracted driving and help make your drive safer are:
- Plan your route ahead of time, program any GPS before turning the key and allow sufficient time to reach your destination
- Put your cell phone away and out of sight
- Try to avoid eating or drinking while driving
- Do your personal grooming before getting in the driver’s seat
- Avoid playing music so loud that you are unable to hear outside noises
- Ensure that children, other passengers and pets do not become a distraction while driving. Ensure everyone is buckled up prior to departing and pull over before tending to any other concerns that may arise
- Avoid driving when fatigued
The condition of the roadway, the behaviours of other drivers and your environment can change abruptly which can leave little or no time to react. When you are behind the wheel, ensure you stay focused, pay attention to your surroundings and expect the unexpected.
Driver distractions reduce your awareness to your driving environment, your decision-making process and your driving performance. This results in collisions or near-collisions and corrective actions having to be taken by you and/or other drivers on the road.
Keep your mind on driving, your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. Drive safe and stay alive.
