April is distracted driving awareness month. Many people think distracted driving begins and ends with texting while driving, but there are many ways people can be distracted. The three main types of distractions related to operating an automobile are related to manual, visual, and cognitive distractions. Here are 5 distracted driving tips for you and your business to use to help eliminate distracted driving.
Adjusting the Radio or AC/Heat
The first type of distraction a driver might face is the interior sound system or climate control system. Most people adjust this first thing before putting on their seat belt. Typically the last time you were in the car, the temperature needs were not the same as they are at this particular time. This is something that should be taken care of before a driver gets out on the road and the amount of time adjusting controls should be kept to a minimum while occupying the vehicle.
Eating
America is now a nation on the go. It is very common for people to eat while in the car. This can be extremely distracting to the driver. Many people think they are good at juggling two things at once, but statistics show this is not the case when operating a motor vehicle. No matter how business someone is, your life is more precious than any appointment you are rushing to get to.
Using a Navigation System
A navigation system is another type of electronic device that many people use frequently when driving. When using these devices, drivers are typically on a road they are less familiar with. Thus they are distracted by the device and by the fact they are driving on unfamiliar roads.
Smoking
Smoking is becoming less common than it was 10 or 20 years ago, but there still is a large proportion of the population who smoke regularly. Vaping devices are gaining in popularity and they contribute to distracting drivers. Smoking should always take place before or after operating a motor vehicle.
Lost in Thought
Many people get behind the wheel at the beginning of the day and after a long days work. These are two times when people are commonly deep in thought. First thing in the morning you may be remembering what happened the previous day or preparing for the days work. On the way home from work, many people use the commute as a time to decompress and reflect on what happened throughout the day. No matter when or where you are behind the wheel, it is important to not let these cognitive distractions keep you from the task at hand.