April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), in 2019 distracted driving killed 3,142 people – a 10% increase from 2018. Young drivers seem more prone to using their phones while driving. According to NHTSA research from 2017, drivers 16 to 24 years old have been observed using handheld electronic devices while driving at higher rates than older drivers have since 2007. However, driver’s in other age groups aren’t far behind.
Did You Know?
A recent study from the University of Minnesota found that talking on a cellphone while driving impairs one’s ability even more than driving while intoxicated. Talking on a cellphone and other driving distractions pose a major hazard to everyone on the road. In addition to being dangerous, distracted driving is also a major trend driving up the cost of commercial auto insurance rates. Check out these tips below that help keep your eyes on the road:
Prevent Distracted Driving
To minimize risks while driving:
- Do not talk on your cellphone or send text messages.
- If you absolutely must conduct a conversation, use a hands-free device.
- Never touch up your makeup or hair in the rearview mirror.
- Limit your conversations with passengers and ask them to keep their voices down so you can concentrate.
- Do not smoke while you are driving, as you will probably pay more attention to not burning yourself or putting out the cigarette than driving safely.
- Only adjust the radio when you are completely stopped.
- Never allow animals to sit on your lap while driving.
- Do not eat or drink while driving.
- Avoid reading maps or directions. Instead, pull into a parking lot to get your bearings and determine where you need to go next to reach your final destination.
- Do not take notes or search for phone numbers.
- Never use a cellphone (even a hands-free device) in bad weather, work zones or heavy traffic.
Safety First
Allowing yourself to become distracted while driving can lead to dangerous, and even fatal, consequences. Be a responsible motorist and make paying attention to the road your number one priority when you’re behind the wheel. Like us on Facebook and follow us on LinkedIn for more tips and industry news!