Distracted driving is dangerous
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EmailCauses of distracted driving and tips to avoid it.
Some may ask exactly what is distracted driving. According to Wikipedia, distracted driving is the act of driving while engaged in other activities such as looking after children, texting, eating or reading. These activities take the driver’s attention away from the road. All distractions compromise the safety of the driver, passengers, bystanders and those in other vehicles. Driving while distracted is extremely dangerous. If a driver takes their eyes and attention off the road to do something else, they can lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.
There are a variety of actions included in distracted driving, and it is not just done by teenagers, but by adults as well. Actions that can distract a driver include texting, reading, watching videos or shows, applying make-up, talking to passengers, using the radio or navigation system, eating, drinking, smoking, dialing or talking on the phone. These are only some examples of things that can cause distracted driving. The causes vary, but the results are all the same, an action that causes the driver to be distracted and the end result is danger.
A car is a large complex machine and driving them should not be taken lightly. When drivers are behind the wheel, they have the responsibility to be safe for themselves, their passengers and the other drivers on the road.
Michigan State University Extension suggests the following driving tips to decrease distracted driving, produced by Decide to Drive:
- Do not text or make a call while driving. Just put your phone away (it can wait).
- Before driving, put on any accessories you may need such as sunglasses or a cell phone ear piece.
- Adjust seats, head rests, vehicle controls and mirrors. Don’t forget to fasten your seat belt.
- Do not eat or drink while driving.
- Do not smoke while driving or at all.
- Driving is not the time to apply makeup or fix your hair.
- Program music or playlist before driving.
- Enter address into the navigation system before leaving location.
- Do not read directions while driving. Review directions before driving.
Always remain safe while driving to decrease the risk of distracted driving!
