Did you know that July is Cell Phone Courtesy Month? This is important because distracted driving is a menace to society. It is no secret that driving can be a stressful and even dangerous activity. It’s been linked to increased accidents and fatalities on our roads.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in the United States. Even so, many of us continue to engage in activities that distract us from driving despite the risks.
So how can you stay focused on the road and avoid distracted driving? In this blog post, we’ll explore some strategies that can help.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
The problem of distracted driving on the roads today is a serious one. With so many distractions available to drivers, it’s no wonder that so many accidents happen every year.
When you drive distracted, you fail to concentrate on the task of driving. It’s essential to be aware of the dangers of distracted driving and take steps to avoid it. This can include talking on the phone, texting, eating, drinking, talking to passengers, and more. Distracted driving poses the following dangers:
Reduced reaction time. If you’re not paying attention to the road, you may not be able to react in time to avoid an accident.
Increased chances of getting into an accident. Driving while distracted is one of the leading causes of accidents, so it’s crucial to be as safe as possible when behind the wheel.
Risk of injuring or killing yourself or someone else. When you’re not paying attention to the road, you’re putting yourself and others at risk.
Keeping Your Attention Focused While Driving
Driving can be monotonous, especially if you’re driving in an area you’re familiar with. It’s easy to let your attention wander, especially if nothing is interesting to look at. But it’s important to stay focused while driving, as even a momentary lapse in concentration can lead to an accident.
You can stay focused by following these tips while driving:
- Make sure you’re well-rested before driving. A significant contributor to accidents is drowsy driving.
- Avoid distractions. Don’t try to multitask while driving. Put away your phone, eat before you start driving, and avoid talking to passengers if possible.
- Stay alert. Pay attention to the road and be on the lookout for potential hazards.
- Take breaks. If you’re tired, take a break to stay refreshed and energized.
We’re here to help
Have you been injured or hurt by a distracted driver? Our firm serves clients in Chicago, Cicero, Berwyn, Oak Park, and other nearby areas of Northern Illinois. For a FREE consultation for your motor vehicle accident injury or wrongful death, call (800) LAW-0300 today.
