Driving Safely

Driving Safely

Distractions occur whenever you stop watching the road, when you do not hold the steering wheel and when your mind is distracted from your main task: Driving safely.

Your risks of collision increase every time you engage in any activity other than driving. An activity not related to driving is any activity that could divert a person’s attention from the main task of driving.

All distractions jeopardize the safety of the driver, passengers, and pedestrians.

Types of Distractions

• Sending text messages
• Using any type of cell phone
• Eating and drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Putting on makeup or combing hair
• Reading, including maps
• Using a navigation system
• Watching videos
• Tuning the radio, CD player, or MP3 player

There are three main types of distractions:

• Visual — Looking away from the road
• Manual — Taking your hands off the wheel
• Cognitive — Not paying attention to what you are doing

Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distractions at the same time.

Sending or receiving a text message makes you take your eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds. At a speed of 55 mph, it’s like crossing a football field blindfolded. It is extremely dangerous.

To Stay Safe While Driving, Do:

• Always use a seat belt — driver and passenger.
• Adjust your driving according to weather conditions, including traffic, pedestrians, roads in poor condition, and degree of light.
• Drive defensively.
• Use a hands-free device if you must use your phone while driving.
• Rest well before driving.
• Avoid taking medications that make you drowsy before driving, including prescription and nonprescription drugs.
• Set a realistic goal for the number of miles you can drive safely every day.

Driving Requires Your Full Attention. Therefore, Do:

• Avoid distractions, such as adjusting the radio or other controls, eating or drinking, and talking or texting on the phone.
• Be alert to situations that require quick action.
• Stop every two hours for a break. Leave the vehicle to stretch, walk, and cool off.
• Be patient and courteous to other drivers.
• Reduce stress by planning your route in advance to allow enough travel time, avoid traffic jams, and avoid driving during rush hour.
• Adjust your speed and increase your distance when carrying heavy loads.

Do Not:

• Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Drive aggressively.
• Drive too close to other drivers and/or speed.
• Take the attitude of other drivers personally.
• Send text messages.
• Operate your global positioning system while driving.