Avoid Distracted Driving

Avoid Distracted Driving

Posted on July 28, 2017 | Written By: iadminlaw

All of us drive while distracted from time to time. In fact, distractions on the road and in the car are everywhere. Think of cell phones, iPods, food, beverage, and the list goes on and on. Basically anything that takes your eyes and your mind off the road qualifies as a distraction, and it can seriously impact your safety. In fact, it can result in a potentially serious accident.

So, what can you do to minimize distractions while you’re behind the wheel? Simply being aware of the problem—and understanding that it’s not just a matter of texting or using social media from your mobile device—is an important first step. In addition, here are top tips from I Accident’s experienced car accident lawyers.

How to Drive without Distraction

Only use your cell phone in emergencies. Yes, texting while behind the wheel is dangerous—but actually, talking on the phone can be just as distracting. That’s true even if you’re using a hands-free calling system! The bottom line: If you’re using your phone, your mind isn’t totally on your driving—and that’s dangerous! When you’re in the car, let your phone charge, have it handy for emergencies, but otherwise keep it out of sight and out of mind.

For inexperienced drivers, limit the number of passengers. The more people you have in your vehicle, the more distractions there are going to be for you. For new drivers in particular, our auto accident attorneys encourage you to keep the passenger number to a minimum.

Pull off the road if you’re feeling drowsy. Nothing causes the mind to wander quite like drowsiness. If you’re driving and you start to become overwhelmed by sleepiness, the best thing to do is pull over and either rest for a little while, or allow someone else to take the wheel.

Don’t eat while driving. Yes, all of us have those mornings when we are rushed and feel like we have no option but to go through the drive thru to grab breakfast—but the fact is, eating while driving is one of the major causes of accidents. Meanwhile, trying to open a bottle of water or fiddling with a hot cup of coffee can be just as bad. Try to limit food and drinks in your vehicle as much as you can.

Avoid multitasking. The bottom line for all of this, really, is that your car is for driving, and nothing else. All other activities should be done before you leave, whether that means making calls, grabbing a snack, or putting on your makeup. Always keep your mind totally focused on the road in front of you!

Distractions Can Be Deadly

Remember here that the stakes are high. Driving while distracted significantly increases your risk of accident—and that accident could be fatal.

Meanwhile, if you are involved in an accident and it’s not your fault, make sure you have the proper representation. I Accident Lawyer provides car accident law services in California and beyond. Contact us today to learn more.