How to Keep Yourself from Driving While Distracted

Nov 9, 2020

Driver's perspective of a man checking his phone while driving

Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving

Unfortunately, distracted driving is one of the biggest causes of car accidents, injuries, and death. To better protect yourself, your passengers, and other drivers, you need to resist the temptation of driving while distracted, even if your distraction will only last for a second. Here are a few tips you should follow.

[ READ MORE: How to Watch For and Drive With Motorcycles ]

Put Away the Phone

The biggest distraction drivers face is the phone. From calling to texting, you should never be on the phone if you are the one driving. Instead, pull over or have a passenger handle the communications for you. Instead, only use your phone for emergency reasons.

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Mute Notifications on Your Phone

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While you may keep your phone in your pocket or purse, knowing that someone has messaged you is a temptation you don’t want. When you drive, you should mute all notifications on your phone. Some apps will mute for you while the car is in motion.

Do Not Multi-Task

It doesn’t matter how good at multi-tasking you believe you are – trying to do anything other than focusing on the road is incredibly dangerous. Avoid eating, searching for a playlist, looking at your calendar, putting on make-up, or any other activity that will take your attention away from the road.

Limit the Conversations and Activity Occurring in the Vehicle

Not only does driving require your visual attention, it requires your audible attention as well. While it may seem like a good idea to chat with your friends in the car, it’s easy to give them a little too much attention. Instead, keep the conversations at a minimum and have your passengers be respectful of your driving by limiting their activities as well.

Pull Over if You Are Drowsy

Drowsy driving is just as bad as distracted driving. Your attention isn’t up to par and your reactions will likely be delayed. If you feel tired, pull over and get some rest. If you have another passenger in the vehicle that can drive, consider swapping so you can sleep and they can continue driving for you.

[ READ MORE: 10 Things You Must Do After a Car Accident ]

Ready to be a safer driver? Explore the OKCarz blog for more tips on how you can protect yourself and others while behind the wheel.