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The Danger of Distracted Driving

By August 5, 2014February 23rd, 2021Personal Protection
distracted driving

Each day in the United States, more than 9 people are killed and more than 1,060 people are injured in crashes that are reported to involve a distracted driver. Distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic on America’s roadways. In 2012 alone, 3,328 were killed in distracted driving crashes. Below you will find the most common distractions as well as tips to avoid distracted driving.

What are the most common hazards?

  • Cell phones – Checking emails, texts, talking and dialing are all distractions. Because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the driver, it is by far the most alarming distraction.
  • Navigation systems
  • Eating and drinking
  • Talking to passengers
  • Grooming – Putting on makeup, brushing hair and other grooming habitats.
  • Adjusting a radio, CD player, or iPod
  • Daydreaming
  • Attending to children or pets in the car
  • Smoking

Tips to avoid distracted driving

  • Get plenty of rest before driving.
  • Take care of all grooming habits before getting behind the wheel.
  • Take care of children/pet needs before you go. Consider bringing another passenger to help you with them.
  • Adjust all radio controls, windows, seats and mirrors before driving.
  • If you plan on hitting any tolls, have your money put aside in a spot you can easily reach it.
  • Make sure you know where your phone is, but don’t put it in a spot that can easily distract you.
  • Take care of all eating, drinking and smoking needs before you leave.

Your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road are more important than that text, email or cigarette. Be safe and pull your car over instead of being a distracted driver!

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