Driving is one of those things that requires your undivided attention in order to maintain safety at all times on the road. Controlling the wheel requires complex coordination between your body and mind, and things that stop you from controlling your vehicle are known as distractions. Fact is that nearly all drivers are guilty of being distracted while driving and there are a number of factors that contribute to this to include loud music, paying attention to others in the vehicles, taking focus on the road and the most dangerous of all – driving while using a cell phone.
If you think logically about the actions you make in your car apart from driving, you will notice that there are several distractions that come into play. For example, if you turn on the audio system, you take your hands of the wheel, and also take your eyes off the road. Fact is that distractions are the sole reasons for accidents and near accidents, and studies prove that the distractions occurred within a few seconds of the crash. Having said that, here are a few tips that will help you focus on the road and ensure a safe driving experience.
1.Sometimes it is necessary to use cell phones, and if you’re going to do so, ensure that you are parked and not driving. This rule applies to hands free devices as well, which cause distractions such as taking your eyes off the road. Also, using your cell phone while driving is against the law in almost every corner of the globe so it best to leave the conversation for later.
2.It is unpredictable when you may get sick of feel drowsy. If you do feel this way, it is best to pull over to the side of the road and seek assistance. If you are travelling long distances, it is a good to ride with another driver, no matter what your abilities are. Studies show that more than 60% of people driving long distances trend to nod off. If you have been drinking or are under the influence of prescription and non prescription drugs, it is highly advisable to leave the wheel alone. By driving under these circumstances, you are not in the state to think logically and make uniformed decisions on the road.
3.When possible, it is best to limit the number of passengers and activities inside the vehicle. The more the passengers, the more the noise resulting in more distractions to deal with. Driving with friends is a big distraction since you are more engrossed in social conversations rather than the road. This doesn’t mean that you do not travel with friends or restrict them from talking, but do not do it frequently or avoid when possible.
4.Eating and driving is another significant distraction and also a bad habit. Having you breakfast on the way to work may seem like a good idea, but may not be the safest thing to do. Eating while driving takes away your focus from the road and may pose a greater risk if you drop something.
5.Some of us spend a significant amount of time in our vehicles but is still not a reason to multitask. Text messaging, looking for the perfect songs or chatting with friends can also be done with the car off.
To make things clear, anything you want to do apart from driving should be done with the car off, because causing a distraction or being attracted to one may lead to an unsafe driving experience.
