We see it all the time, and many of us are guilty of it ourselves. Whether it’s eating, using a phone, adjusting the radio, or using GPS, it’s distracted driving – and it’s dangerous in any form.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA), driver distraction has become a problem of epidemic proportions. While distracted driving is by no means new, advancements in technology, cellphones, and electronic devices have created more distractions for drivers. These innovations have led to a spike in traffic accidents caused by distracted drivers, and thousands of preventable injuries and deaths each year.
Although distractions are constantly present, there are things you can do to avoid or manage distractions while driving. Doing so can help save lives.
- Make the act of driving your primary focus – Driving is a difficult and potentially dangerous task, so make sure you fully pay attention to the road and devote your full attention to driving safely and obeying laws.
- Don’t use your cell phone – Using a cell phone for texting, calling, or browsing the internet is tempting, but it’s also one of the most dangerous distractions because it commands a driver’s visual, manual, and cognitive attention simultaneously. In South Carolina, text messaging is banned for all drivers. Take the next step to keep yourself and others safe by not using your phone while behind the wheel!
- Prepare for Your Trip – If you’re heading out, be sure to do what you can to minimize your distractions while you’re on the road. Set up your GPS, seats, mirrors, a/c, and sound system so you don’t have to do it when you’re driving. Make sure you know traffic conditions ahead of time and the route you plan to take.
- Passengers – Passengers can be a distraction if conversations get out of hand. Remember to always make the task of driving your priority. In some situations, it may also be beneficial to enlist the help of passengers so you can focus on driving safely. This may include having a passenger reach for something or look up directions for you.
- Food & Grooming – Give yourself the time needed to eat, dress, apply make-up, and handle personal grooming before you get behind the wheel. These actions can be serious distractions.
- Children & Animals – Safely secure children and animals before your trip. If they require your attention during your trip, pulling over to help is a much safer option than reaching into the backseat.
- Loose Items – Make sure your case is free from any loose items that could potentially slide around your vehicle when driving. Not only is this dangerous in general, but it can also create a distraction when you need to pick it up
At George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped many victims injured in car wrecks, including wrecks caused by distracted drivers. If you have questions about your rights and what our team of award-winning attorneys can do to help you, contact us for a FREE case review! We serve victims and families throughout South Carolina!