5 Helpful Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving

Distracted driving kills about 2,800-3000 people every year in the United States. This is one of the several horrible distracted driving statistics because these deaths could have been prevented.

Distracted driving typically stems from complacency and thinking you’re a better driver than you are. To help encourage you to stay focused while on the road, here are 5 helpful tips to prevent distracted driving.

1. Avoid Grabbing Your Phone

One of the major causes of distracted driving is cellphones. It’s a serious problem because reading or sending a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. Depending on how fast you’re driving, that can be like closing your eyes for the length of a football field.

To avoid this altogether, it’s best to avoid all temptations you may have to use your phone while driving.

If you have to speak to someone, call the person when you’re at a full stop. Also, consider using hands-free technology so your eyes are always on the road.

2. Have Your Audio Ready to Go

Most people enjoy listening to podcasts and music while they’re driving. This becomes a problem when your fidgeting with the radio or scroll through music on your phone while driving. This keeps your eyes off the road and distracts your mind.

It’s best to have your playlist, podcast, or audiobook set-up and ready to play before you start driving. If you need to mess with it, wait until you’re at a complete stop.

3. Use a Phone Holder for GPS

Most people rely on the GPS technology embedded in their smartphones.

Though GPS technology is convenient, it can cause a major distraction when you’re driving. If your phone is in your lap and you’re looking up and down to figure out where to go, you’re putting yourself at risk.

Consider buying a phone holder in your car so you can keep your eyes on the road while following the directions. It’s also helpful to have the audio turned up so you can hear the direction cues.

4. Keep Your Hands on the Wheel

Keeping your hands on the wheel at all times can help you avoid an auto accident. It’s best to keep your hands on opposite sides of the steering wheel with a firm, but gentle grip. Use your fingers as opposed to your palms for increased control.

5. Keep Your Mind Focused

A distracted mind isn’t safe for driving. Though it’s easier said than done, try to prevent your mind from wandering when you’re on the road. Cognitive distraction can reduce your reaction speed, putting you in danger.

Practice defensive driving in your head by predicting what other drivers might do next.

This goes a long way in preventing intersection crashes and other serious car crashes.

Now You Have Some Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving

These 5 tips can go a long way in preventing you from distracted driving. Keeping your eyes on the road and avoiding the temptations of technology will help keep your mind focused. This will give you more time to react and respond if something happens.

There isn’t a phone call or text worth responding to if it’s going to put your life and others at risk. So, don’t let yourself be the cause of a horrible accident. Practice focused driving!

And if you found this lifestyle article helpful, be sure to check out the rest of our blog. We cover a ton of other articles on related topics that you’re sure to love!