Drunk driving is extremely dangerous and costs many lives each year in the US. In fact, the estimate is that one person dies every 52 minutes in the US due to drunk driving. However, there is another menace on American roads: distracted driving.
Many elements of distracted driving seem innocent on the surface, but they are still very deadly. According to DriveSafeOnline, distracted driving causes around 3,000 deaths and 40,000 injuries each year.
What does distracted driving involve?
Anything that takes your focus off the road is a form of distracted driving. One of the most common varieties is using a cellphone while behind the wheel. Another common form of distracted driving is eating or drinking while driving. Even adjusting the stereo is a form of distracted driving and might cause injury.
How can I prevent distracted driving?
The first thing you should do is make sure to never use your phone while driving. Many phones have settings that can detect if you are driving. If you turn this setting on, it will prevent notifications from appearing on your phone, which may distract you. You should also not eat or drink while you are operating a vehicle. Try waking up earlier in the morning so that you eat breakfast at home, and if you are on a road trip pull off to rest stops if you need to eat. Finally, keep your hands on the wheel at all times and make sure your eyes are always on the road.
Distracted driving is just as deadly as drunk driving. Make sure to take all proper precautions and keep your focus on the road when you are behind the wheel.
