Even though federal, state and local governments have devoted significant resources to educational campaigns, distracted driving remains a serious and deadly problem in Georgia and across the country. In fact, more than 3,000 Americans died in distracted driving accidents in 2019 alone.
Avoiding distracted driving requires a mental and physical commitment. Here are three strategies that may keep you focused on the driving task.
1. Stash your smartphone
Nowadays, virtually everyone seems to have a smartphone. While it may be tempting to send a quick text message, read an e-mail or call your best friend, smartphone usage behind the wheel can lead to catastrophic consequences. Accordingly, you should stash your smartphone in the glove box, center console or another reachable location until you reach your destination.
2. Rethink your musical selections
Listening to loud or uptempo music may make it impossible for you to hear emergency vehicles, road noises and other sounds. You may also be more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors. Put simply, listening to quieter and slower music may save your life.
3. Wait to eat
The U.S. has nearly 200,000 fast-food restaurants, making it easy to pick up your favorite to-go order. You should wait until you get home to eat, though. After all, unwrapping sandwiches, dipping nuggets or wiping away spilled ketchup when driving may be extremely dangerous.
Like everyone on the road, you have a duty to drive reasonably. Part of this duty includes maintaining focus when you are behind the wheel. Ultimately, if you think something may divert your eyes, ears, hands or feet from the driving task, it is probably best to avoid it.