How to Avoid Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from the road. It can be anything from talking on the phone to eating a meal to adjusting the radio. Even seemingly harmless activities like glancing at a text message can increase your risk of crashing.

Distracted driving is a major problem. In 2021, distracted driving was a factor in 3,142 fatal crashes in the United States. That's one death every 8 hours.

There are many things you can do to avoid distracted driving. Here are a few tips:

• Put away your phone. This is the most important tip. Don't text, email, or talk on the phone while you're driving. Even hands-free devices can be distracting.

• Don't eat or drink while driving. This can also be a major distraction. If you need to eat or drink, pull over to a safe location first.

• Avoid adjusting your radio or navigation system. Do this before you start driving or pull over to a safe location.

• Don't talk to passengers about anything that's not related to driving. This can be just as distracting as talking on the phone.

• Make sure your car is properly adjusted. This includes your seat, mirrors, and climate controls. If you have to reach for something, it's a distraction.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Don't let yourself get distracted by other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists.

• Take breaks often. If you're feeling tired or drowsy, pull over to a safe location and take a break.

By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the road.

Here are some additional tips to avoid distracted driving:

• Use a hands-free device if you must talk on the phone.

• Set your phone to silent or vibrate so you're not tempted to check it.

• Plan your route before you start driving so you don't have to fiddle with the navigation system.

• Avoid driving when you're tired or drowsy.

• If you have young children, make sure they're properly restrained and occupied so they don't distract you.

• Be a good role model. Don't let your passengers distract you while you're driving.

Distracted driving is a serious problem, but it's one that we can all help to solve. By following these tips, we can make the roads safer for everyone.