As a driver, you can only control what happens inside your vehicle. It’s important that you never give in to distractions, as doing so means you’re not focused on what’s happening around you.
There are many causes of distracted driving, all of which can cause an accident. However, these seven are among the most common:
- Texting: When you’re texting, you don’t have your hands on the wheel, and you’re not watching the road ahead.
- Talking on the phone: It may not be as dangerous as texting, but it can still cause you to lose your focus.
- Daydreaming: If you’re thinking about anything other than driving and your safety, you’re daydreaming.
- Passengers: It’s okay to have passengers in your vehicle, but you shouldn’t let them become a distraction.
- Reaching for an object: From a map to a toy for your child, you should never reach for any object in your vehicle while you’re in motion.
- Adjusting vehicle controls: Modern vehicles have more controls than ever before, such as those for audio and climate systems.
- Eating or drinking: Doing either of these things while driving may help save you time, but it also increases the risk of an accident.
As you’re doing your part to avoid these distractions, don’t be surprised if you come across another driver who isn’t paying attention to the road.
In the event of a distracted driving accident, move to safety and call 911. Your health comes first, but once you have that in order, you can learn more about your legal rights, how to file an insurance claim and how to protect you and your family.