April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. It is estimated that 3,124 people are killed each year as the result of distracted drivers. 10 percent of the people who are involved in a distracted driving accident are under the age of 21. Staying focused on the road and eliminating distractions are one of the keys to staying safe while on the road. Below is a list of tips for avoiding distracted driving:
Pull Over If You Are Drowsy
You are much more likely to get distracted if you drive while you are drowsy. Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. It is estimated that 37 percent of people in the United States have admitted to falling asleep while behind the wheel. If you are tired, then you should pull over to the side of the road and rest.
Do Not Eat While You Are Driving
Many people are forced to eat while they are on the road because they are extremely busy. However, if you eat while you are behind the wheel, then you are much more likely to be involved in an accident. You may save time by eating while on the road, but you will have a harder time focusing. Furthermore, there is the chance that the food will spill, which can create another distraction for you.
Only Use Your Cell Phone For Emergency Purposes
Cell phones are one of the biggest driving distractions today. Most of us have one, and many do not seem to mind using it while they are driving. Hands-free devices are just as dangerous to use while driving. You should not use your cell phone while you are driving. The only time that a cell phone should be used while driving is for emergency purposes. Furthermore, it is against the law to use a cell phone while driving in many places.
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