We’ve all been there. You’re cruising down the road, when suddenly your phone lights up with a notification. A text from a friend, an email, or a social media alert. And before you know it, you’re reaching for your phone, thinking, “I’ll just check it real quick.”
But here’s the thing: taking your eyes off the road, even for just a second, can have serious consequences. In 2019 alone, over 3,100 people died in crashes caused by distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). And while most of us are aware of the dangers of texting and driving, we often overlook other distractions that can be just as risky—like eating, fiddling with the radio, or even chatting with passengers.
So, what can we do to stay safe and stay focused? Here are some simple tips to help you keep your attention where it belongs: on the road.
1. Put Your Phone Away – It Can Wait
This one’s a no-brainer, but it’s crucial. The best way to avoid distractions is to put your phone out of reach. Turn it off or silence it if you can, so you’re not tempted to check it while driving. If you absolutely need to use it for directions, pull over first and set everything up before getting back on the road.
Texting while driving increases your chances of an accident by 23%, and it’s so dangerous that many states have made it illegal. Stay safe—put the phone down!
2. Eat Before You Hit the Road
We’ve all been guilty of grabbing a snack while driving, but eating behind the wheel can be just as distracting as texting. If you’re feeling hungry, take a few minutes to eat before you start driving, so you’re not juggling food and steering at the same time.
3. Limit Your Passengers
It’s easy to get caught up in conversation with passengers, but it can pull your attention away from the road. If you need to chat, try to keep it brief and limit the conversation to one person. If you have kids in the car, give them something to do so they’re not constantly distracting you.
4. Set Your GPS Before You Drive
Trying to adjust your GPS while driving can be a big distraction. If you’re using your phone or a car GPS, make sure you enter your destination before you start driving. If you need to change it along the way, pull over first and make the adjustment safely.
5. Keep Your Eyes on the Road
It might sound obvious, but it’s easy to get distracted by things going on inside the car. Always keep your eyes on the road and stay aware of your surroundings. Watch out for other vehicles, pedestrians, and any potential hazards. Don’t forget to check your mirrors frequently, so you’re ready for anything unexpected.
6. Know Your Car
Familiarize yourself with your car’s features before you get behind the wheel. Know how things like cruise control and blind-spot detection work, and make sure you can easily find the controls. If an emergency situation arises, you’ll be thankful you took the time to learn your car.
7. Stay Calm
Road rage won’t get you anywhere. If someone cuts you off or drives aggressively, don’t take it personally. Stay calm and focus on your own driving. Reacting with anger will only distract you and put you and others at risk.
By following these simple tips, you’ll reduce distractions and help ensure your drive is as safe as possible. And remember, even if you’re not texting, other distractions can still take your focus away from the road. So, stay aware, stay calm, and drive safely.
