30 Mar The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Chances are you may have noticed more than one person talking on their cell phones while driving to work this morning. Did you notice any change in the way they were driving? In some cases, you may notice the vehicle swerving or even changing speed – not unlike the way a vehicle moves when driven by a driver who is under the influence of some sort of substance.
Unfortunately, distracted driving can sometimes be as dangerous as driving under the influence. Distracted driving comes in many different forms. Talking on the phone is just one of the ways drivers become distracted when they should be paying attention to the road. Anything that takes the focus away from the task of driving is considered a distraction. Eating, changing the radio station, talking to passengers, and even just reading road signs can be distracting. Here are some tips to help keep you safe on the road and avoid distractions while driving:
Only use your cell phone for emergencies
Always pull over to use your phone. Even your Bluetooth device can be distracting. Save calls for later. If you don’t think you can handle skipping the social calls, put your phone in the trunk where you can not use it. Besides, you could face tickets and fines for using your phone while driving.
Don’t drive if you are drowsy
Falling asleep at the wheel can be a real danger if you are too tired. Do not risk your life or the lives of your passengers or other people on the road. Pull over and take a nap.
Avoid eating while driving
The act of eating can be distracting. Not only do you have to take your hands off the wheel, but you need to focus some of your attention on the food. If it spills, that usually causes even more distraction.
No multi-tasking!
You spend a lot of time in the car, we know. But that is still not the place to try and get all your work in. Texting, eating, calling friends, and conducting business meetings while you are on your commute is not safe for anyone. Wait until you’ve reached your destination to do anything other than drive.
Photo by Ryan Harvey 
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