Easy Ways to Avoid Distracted Driving

It’s no secret that distracted driving causes accidents. Even though people know they should focus their attention on the road ahead when they are behind the wheel, they tend to perform a variety of activities while driving. Anything that occurs in your car while you are driving can be a distraction. You could be the source of the distraction or it could be a passenger.

Fortunately, there are easy ways to avoid becoming distracted while you are driving. Use the tips below the next time you slide behind the wheel of your car so that you can keep your attention on the task at hand.

Ways You Can Avoid Distracted Driving

1. Get Up Earlier

You don’t have to set your alarm for an hour earlier than normal – even 15 minutes can give you the time you need to get things done. Grooming, personal hygiene and eating should all be done before you leave the house. Get up early enough to make sure you aren’t feeling forced to do any of these things behind the wheel.

2.  Put Your Phone in the Backseat

When your phone is sitting right next to you, it can be hard to not answer it or check an alert. Put your phone in the backseat and out of your reach. It will take some getting used to, but after a few days you’ll be more comfortable with it. Remind yourself that taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds is dangerous.

3. Secure Everything

Loose items can go flying when you have to stop quickly or you take a turn a bit too fast. Secure all of your belongings so they don’t roll, spill or slide around in your vehicle. If you have a coffee spill, for example, you’ll be tempted to bed down to sop up the liquid. This could be dangerous. If your coffee cup is secure, it won’t happen.

4. Don’t Get Lost

Chances of getting lost during your commute is slim to none. Chances of getting lost while traveling to an unfamiliar destination is much higher. Make sure you have programmed your GPS before you leave and, if you do get lost, pull over to the side of the road to regain your bearings.

5. Keep the Passengers Quiet

Passengers in your car want to talk, either to you or to each other. Kindly ask your passengers to keep their voices down and, if you feel the need, ask them to stop talking altogether. It’s not rude – it’s safe.

If you are involved in an accident in due to distracted driving, you have legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for injuries, property damage and more. Do not assume that you have no recourse. Reach out to our experienced Charlotte car accident law firm for assistance. Your first consultation will be held at no cost to you. Call today or browse our website for more information about our firm and the types of cases we handle.