Don't Let Your Phone send that Final Text Message!

April is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month in the United States. This initiative was started by the National Safety Council (NSC) to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and to encourage drivers to make a conscious effort to avoid distractions while driving.

Distracted driving is a serious issue that poses a threat not only to the driver but also to other road users. It is estimated that distracted driving is a contributing factor in over 3,000 fatal crashes every year.

Distracted driving can take many forms, including texting or using a phone, eating or drinking, talking to passengers, adjusting music or navigation systems, and even daydreaming. Anything that takes a driver’s attention away from the road can be considered a distraction. This is particularly concerning given the prevalence of mobile devices, which can be a major distraction for drivers.

To help combat distracted driving, the NSC recommends that drivers take the following steps:

Put the phone away – The most important thing drivers can do to avoid distractions is to put their phones away while driving. This means not only avoiding texting or making calls, but also not using apps, checking email, or using social media.

Plan – Drivers should take the time to plan their routes before they start driving so they don’t need to use navigation systems while on the road. They should also eat and drink before or after driving, rather than while behind the wheel.

Minimize other distractions – Drivers should try to minimize other distractions as much as possible. For example, they should avoid adjusting music or climate control systems while driving, and they should limit conversations with passengers that might be distracting.

Speak up – Passengers can play a role in reducing distracted driving by speaking up when they see the driver engaging in risky behavior. This can include reminding the driver to put their phone away or offering to handle navigation or other tasks while the driver focuses on the road.

Distracted Driving Awareness Month provides us with an opportunity to do just that. So let’s take this opportunity to learn more about distracted driving and how we can avoid it, and let’s work together to make our roads safer and more secure.

SheSight suggests five additional steps that drivers can take to avoid distractions while driving:

1. Set up your vehicle before starting the engine – Drivers can avoid distractions by setting up their vehicle’s climate control, radio, and navigation system before they start driving. This can help to minimize the need for adjustments while on the road.

2. Use voice-activated controls – Many modern vehicles have voice-activated controls for navigation, music, and other features. This can be a great way to avoid the need for manual adjustments while driving.

3. Take breaks as needed – Long drives can be tiring, and fatigue can be a major distraction. Drivers can avoid this by taking regular breaks to stretch, get some fresh air, and recharge.

4. Avoid multitasking – Drivers should avoid multitasking while driving, such as eating or putting on makeup. It’s important to focus on the road and give driving your full attention.

5. Pull over if necessary – If a driver needs to make a call, send a text, or use their phone for any reason, it’s best to pull over to a safe location and park before doing so. This can help to ensure that the driver’s attention is fully focused on the task at hand.

Distracted driving is a serious issue, but it can be addressed through education and awareness. This April, take the time to learn more about distracted driving and what you can do to avoid it. Together, we can work to make the roads safer for all.

Staff Reporter