For the seasoned road user, driving almost feels automatic. However, in reality, the process is very complex. The brain has to make multiple decisions every second just to keep a car on the road.
If these decisions become clouded by distractions, then driving can become a very dangerous activity. Over 400,000 car crashes occur every year in the States due to distracted driving.
What are some of the more common distractions and how can they be avoided?
Passengers in the vehicle
You may use your car to shuttle other people around. Perhaps you take your elderly relative to all of their medical appointments? Maybe you collect the children from school every day? In any case, the more passengers you have, the more likely you are to become distracted by them.
If you have children, make sure they are fully secured in their seats and emphasize how important it is for them to be on their best behavior during the journey. If you tell your elderly relative that you need a bit of peace and quiet so that you can concentrate, it’s highly likely that they’ll understand.
Turn cellphones onto silent mode
Cell phones are arguably the most dangerous distraction when driving, so it’s vital to negate cell phone use in the vehicle. Turning your phone onto silent mode and setting your status to “do not interrupt” is a great way to reduce the risk of receiving calls and messages while on the road. An even better move is to put the phone completely out of sight, such as in the glove compartment or trunk area.
Even if you take every sensible measure to avoid distractions, there is nothing to say that other road users are doing the same. If you’ve been injured through someone else’s negligent actions, then you may be entitled to legal compensation.