Safe driving requires your full attention but almost everyone is guilty of some form of distracted driving. Drivers can avoid dangerous behaviours by taking charge to eliminate distractions and focusing on the road. Here are four ways to avoid distracted driving.
1. Use your phone in emergency situations only
Always turn off your phone and keep it out of sight to prevent the temptation of reaching for it to make a call or respond to a message. Only use your cell phone to attend to emergency situations and remember to pull over to the side to make that call. Note that hands-free devices are not recommended because they can make you miss important audio and visual cues, which are critical in avoiding an accident.
2. Pull over if you’re feeling drowsy
Drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving because you can easily nod off or fall asleep and get into a crash. Don’t be tempted to drive on to get home faster if you are feeling drowsy or tired. Instead, pull over immediately and find a safe location to catch some sleep or a quick nap. You can thereafter drive to your destination safely.
3. Limit the number of passengers in the vehicle
Passengers’ actions and conversations can be a source of distraction for most drivers. The more passengers in your car, the more activity in your vehicle; hence, more distractions. This can easily pull your focus and attention off the task and land you in trouble on the road. Therefore, drivers should limit the number of passengers they allow in their vehicle.
4. Avoid multi-tasking while driving
Doing your make-up or hair while driving may seem like a time-saver, but it makes you less attentive to other motorists. Additionally, food spills can be a significant distraction for a driver. Therefore, enjoy your meals and snacks before or after the journey. And if you have to eat while driving, avoid snacks that are difficult to manage.
If you’re hit by a distracted driver, Not My Fault can provide an accident replacement car for you. Call us today and we will help minimise any inconvenience you face after a not my fault accident.