Distracted driving can take many forms, but cell phones are one of the most common reasons for someone to take their eyes or mind off of what’s happening on the road. While it’s easy to turn off the radio or eat before you drive, it’s often harder to ignore your phone.
Almost every state bans texting while driving. Tickets can lead to fines, points on your license and increased insurance rates. Beyond the expense and in convenience, texting or otherwise using your phone while you are behind the wheel can have dire consequences. Considering that 3,275 people lost their lives in 2023 to accidents involving distracted drivers, it’s important to focus on breaking phone addictions. Using these tips can help you stay alert as you drive to ensure you arrive at your destination safely.
Minimize Access to Your Phone
Most people store their phone in a console or holder that is in their view. While this might make it easier to remember to take it with you, it’s better to put it out of sight. Glove compartments, the back seat or other hard-to-reach places are best for reducing your temptation to pick up your phone.
Change Your Perspective
Although being in your car gives you a chance to take a break from other responsibilities, it’s important to avoid using the extra time to catch up on messages. Instead, try to use your driving time as an opportunity to practice mindfulness.
Making an effort to focus on how you feel as you drive along with the details you notice on the road keeps you safer. Plus, you’ll be more relaxed when you aren’t trying to multitask during your commute.
Recognize the Risks of Hands-Free Technology
Although hands-free technology makes it easier to take calls while keeping your eyes on the road, this isn’t completely risk-free. Instead, research shows that drivers may still experience cognitive distraction that increases the risk of having an accident.
If possible, it’s best to avoid talking on the phone through any method. This is especially true with emotionally charged conversations or ones that require deep thought.
Turn Off Notifications
Phone notification sounds are meant to be noticeable. Unfortunately, hearing a steady stream of dings can generate anxiety about what is happening. Turning off notification alerts allows you to drive without worrying about who is sending multiple texts.
Identify Safe Places to Stop
Naturally, there may be times when you need to use your phone. As you drive, you might realize you need to ask a question about your intended destination, such as whether you should pick anything up from the store. Or, you might be worried about running late. Pulling into a parking lot or gas station is one of two options that allow you to communicate safely.
Lead By Example
When you consider that your children might be watching your behavior, it can help motivate you to stay off your phone. Parents of teen drivers can use this as an opportunity to promote safer driving habits. Make a big show of putting your phone away and turning off notifications and tell your teenager why you’re making this choice.
Encourage Teens to Speak Up
Talking to your family about distracted driving could save their lives. Make sure your teenager feels confident asking other drivers to put their phone away. Offering to make a phone call or look up directions from the passenger seat is a safer alternative that could help encourage a driver to focus on the road.
Practicing safe driving habits pays off when you avoid costly accidents that threaten your property and health. Putting your phone on silent and storing it in an inaccessible place only takes a few minutes. Yet, taking these simple precautions can save you valuable time and money over your many hours of driving.