There are many bad driving habits in use on the roadways, and there are also many elements that make our roads very dangerous. Certain elements like talking on cell phones, drinking and driving, not paying attention to the road, reading GPS systems, and putting on makeup have all caused accident rates to skyrocket. Believe it or not, nearly all accidents are directly caused by distracted driving. Due to the fact that car accidents are one of the leading causes of death for people between the ages of 30 and 35, more attention should be paid to the subject of distracted driving.
Driving Distractions – Mostly Preventable
Everyone who gets behind the wheel of a car is taking a chance. They are trusting that every other driver on the road is going to practice safe driving skills. However, everyone who drives has also broken at least several driving rules that are considered basic. As a person grows more comfortable with driving, he or she will often forget about the endless train of hazards facing them. As a life-long driver, you’d be wise to never lose that sense of wonder and respect that you had when you just started to drive. When you retain this caution, you might be able to avoid the conditions of distracted driving.
There are a few distractions that are most often cited as causes for accidents. They include:
- Fiddling with your radio, CD player or Mp3 player. Sure, people love to listen to music while they are driving, but when your eyes are distracted by the radio stations or song list, they are not watching the road attentively.
- Speeding is a main cause of distracted driving. Realize how fast you are traveling at all times and make sure you know how long it will take you to stop suddenly if you need to. Just because your car can speed doesn’t mean you should.
- Certain other activities like reading a newspaper or applying makeup do not have a place in your morning commute.
- Also avoid eating and drinking while driving. This can be an extremely distracting undertaking when traveling at high speeds. Make sure you finish your food and drink before you get behind the wheel of a car.
Preventing an Accident
When you are aware of possible distractions, you can do more to avoid them while driving. Hang up your cell phone, resolve not to be distracted by your radio or GPS systems, don’t eat or drink while driving, and take care to have your make up applied before you leave the house. You cannot be an attentive driver if the act of driving does not have your full attention. Make sure you have both hands on the wheel at all times, especially when traveling on highways or interstates, be aware of your surroundings, and make sure driving has your full, undivided attention.
Attitudes Need to Change
Many people don’t see the importance of attentive driving. However, your first accident could very well be your last. When you are either the cause or the victim of distracted driving, there’s nothing worse in the world. You could be held criminally liable if you cause an accident because you were eating or talking on your cell phone. There are states that are taking this issue so seriously that they are passing laws against distracted driving when it comes to cell phones and GPS uses. Make sure you make smart choices every time you get behind the wheel of your car. Your life and the lives of others are depending on you.