*Despite marked improvements in overall vehicle safety, 2015 saw the highest increase in driver fatalities in the last 50 years. Understanding the danger signs of being distracted behind the wheel — and taking the proper steps to be mindful of these interferences — can make you a better driver and ultimately save lives.
Calling Your Love
Even hands-free devices are significant dangers while driving. Holding up your end of a conversation is not as natural or as easy as you may think. And, it takes even more of your concentration if the conversation becomes heated. Having an argument with your significant other on the phone while driving can completely move your focus away from the task at hand.
Texting Behind the Wheel
According to Driving-Test.org, distracted driving is rapidly becoming the biggest killer of drivers, especially teens. In fact, the U.S. government has taken large steps to address the problem head on by creating a sub-department and listing some of the nation’s biggest distractions.
Researchers separate distraction into three categories: visual, manual and cognitive. Yet, texting distracts on all three levels. Drivers must look away, take their hands off the steering wheel, and think about something else. Since texting is a common communication method amongst young people, it’s also one of the greatest killers.
Eating and Drinking
Driving while hungry is never a good idea, but trying to wolf down a burger or burrito while driving will only set up someone for a potential accident. It becomes more of a problem if you are attempting to eat healthy, for example, since eating a salad in the car generally requires both hands, forcing you to drive with your knees.
Talking to Passengers
It’s natural to try and look at someone while talking. Of course, when driving, this can be extremely dangerous. If you need visual feedback to carry on a conversation, then the car is not the right place. Like using a cell phone and driving, if you must have that angry conversation, then it’s best to pull over to the side of the road and continue on the phone in safety.
Self-Grooming Faux Pas
Believe it or not, the car has become a place to put on makeup or have your morning shave. Unfortunately, these activities require you to remove your hand from the steering wheel, look away, and think about how to make yourself look professional before arriving at the office. Small tip: Your beauty is not worth a potential catastrophe.
Reading and Driving
Yes, some people actually read magazines and books while behind the wheel. There is little to say about this but just a slow shake of the head. Don’t read and drive.
Streaming Videos
This is in the same category as reading a book while driving. Smart people know it’s ridiculous, but, in the world of tricked-out cars and super smartphones, it’s so easy to do.
Using a Navigation System
There is a certain paradox to using your GPS. You want to get to your destination safe and fast, but setting the address and monitoring the GPS’ instructions is a huge distraction that can cause an accident. Set your GPS before moving into traffic and use the voice function so that you don’t need to continually look at the screen.
Adjusting Your Music
Music can be calming or motivating. Finding that right song can get you ready for the rest of the day. Unfortunately, with the amount of technology available at our fingertips, it can take you a long time to scroll through 10,000 songs, all while requiring you to take your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel.
Every Other Distraction
And that’s the short list. Children playing in the backseat, pain from the shoes that don’t fit quite right, and the conversations you keep playing in your head are all distractions that can be serious if the right events line up.
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