Driving while distracted is one of the world’s leading causes of car accidents. If you’re guilty of not paying attention when you’re behind the wheel, then this article is for you. It’s important that you drive as carefully as possible – car accidents can be (and often are) fatal.
This article will tell you what the dangers of distracted driving are, how to avoid accidents, and how you can drive safer:
Causes of Distracted Driving
- Eating and drinking behind the wheel is one of the most common causes of distracted driving. Breakfast and lunch are the most common meals eaten behind the wheel;
- Using mobile phones behind the wheel can be very dangerous. After eating and drinking, using mobile phones is the most common cause of distraction for drivers;
- Using the radio is another leading cause of distracted driving. Switching radio stations, turning the volume up or down, and changing songs can be very distracting;
- Passengers talking or shouting can also be very distracting for drivers.
How to Avoid Accidents
The best way to avoid accidents is to pay attention when you’re driving. According to the legal professionals from injury-attorneys.com, one of the most common causes of car accidents in Sacramento, where their offices are based, is distracted driving. Distracted driving kills. Instead of eating, using your phone, changing radio stations, or talking to passengers, focus on the road. If you don’t pay attention, then it could cost you your life.
How to Drive Safer
1. Have Some Patience
When you’re on the road, it’s important that you have patience. You don’t have to drive at the speed limit – you can go slower. Taking your time when you’re behind the wheel gives you more time to pay attention to other drivers and the road ahead. Don’t allow other drivers to pressure you into driving faster than you’re comfortable going.
2. Wear a Seatbelt
Make sure that you always wear your seatbelt when you’re driving. Drivers who drive without their seatbelts on are taking their lives into their own hands. Wearing a seatbelt can save your life. Make sure that any passengers in your car with you also wear their seatbelts. You can get into trouble with the police if you’re seen driving without a seatbelt on.
3. Know Your Car
Even if you’re just using a friend’s car for a short journey, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with it. Knowing your vehicle is part of being a better driver. You need to take time to adjust your seat, set your mirrors, and familiarize yourself with the car’s controls. You should also check the dashboard and on-board diagnostics tool to check for any issues before you set out.
4. Pay Attention to Others
When you’re driving, it’s important that you pay attention to other road users. If you do not pay attention to other drivers, you might wind up being involved in a car accident. You can’t guarantee that every driver sharing the road with you is paying attention. By paying attention, you ensure that you protect yourself, and other drivers. Watch how cars are moving, where they are going, and get out of the way of reckless drivers.
5. Turn It Down
It’s important that you turn down your music when you’re driving. While it’s tempting to blast the radio and cruise along with your windows down, this can be dangerous. You also need to remind passengers to keep the noise down. As we mentioned earlier, passengers talking and shouting can be very distracting. Don’t hesitate to ask your passengers to be quiet while you’re driving – particularly if you feel that they’re distracting you.
6. Car Maintenance
It’s also important that you keep your car properly maintained. Take it to the mechanics when necessary, and have it serviced every 10,000 miles. It’s crucial that you keep your car maintained so that it does not deteriorate or become dangerous. Make sure that you pump up your tires, check your car’s fluid levels and lights, and change its oil regularly.
7. Visit an Optician
You might also want to visit an optician once a year to make sure that you do not have any problems with your eyes. Problems with your eyes can cause you a lot of bothering on the road. If you can’t see properly, then you could wind up causing or being involved in an accident.
8. Focus
When you’re driving, you need to focus. Forget about your worries when you’re behind the wheel. Taking your attention off of the road for just a second can cause a car accident.
It’s important that you pay attention to the road when you’re driving. A car accident can be fatal. Instead of having to pick up the pieces after a car accident, start driving more safely. Prevention is always better than cure.
