The biggest threat to drivers is not obstacles on the road or other drivers, it is distractions. Every driver gets distracted at some point and it is usually by something in the car. Driving takes focus, especially in hazardous conditions. Car manufacturers are introducing new systems to help drivers eliminate distractions and respond to problems faster. However, it is up to each individual driver to avoid their distractions. Failure to do so could result in accidents. That’s why, as a driver, it is your responsibility to minimize the distractions in your car. If you are worried about getting distracted while driving, here’s how drivers can reduce distractions.
Limit Extra Device Use
Cell phones and other devices can be a major distraction for drivers. The easiest way to ensure that they are not a distraction is to make sure that they are not accessible while driving. Put your other devices in places where you cannot reach them easily. This way, your natural instinct will be to focus on driving rather than messing with these devices.
Most vehicles now have systems that connect to your phone wirelessly and have controls on the steering wheel. Use the controls that the car has to control your devices when you need to. They make it easier to access your devices without being a major distraction.
Rest When You Need To
Another major distraction for drivers is being tired to the point where it is difficult to focus. Cars have a naturally calming effect on people. The motion as well as the white noise generated by driving over roads can lull you into a very relaxed mindset. However, being exhausted has the same effect. The two combined make it extremely difficult to drive safely since your sense, reaction times, and mental alertness are all reduced. If you are exhausted and find yourself losing your focus, get off of the road immediately. Losing your focus means that you are not able to react to changing situations, which can be very dangerous. Pull over and rest until you get your focus back before you continue driving.
Provide Non-Distracting Activities for Passengers
Passengers create distractions that reduce your ability to focus. Make sure that children and other distracting passengers have something to do that will keep them from being distracting while you drive. Some cars come with DVD players, but you can get a portable one for relatively cheap. Passengers can also read a book or play quiet car games to keep themselves occupied. Just make sure that you establish and enforce rules so that they let you stay focused on the road.
Driving can be fun and is a necessary part of life in most cases. However, it is important to think ahead and prevent distractions wherever possible. You should do everything that you possibly can to ensure that your next drive will be safe. Also, look into getting a new car with driver assist technologies that can help you avoid distractions while you are on the road.
This photo, “Drive,” by Timo Newton-Syms used under CC BY-SA 2.0. “Drive” is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.
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