With our days becoming busier than ever before, we are compelled to utilize every minute we can to check more off our To Do list. It can be tempting to use your commute time to knock out a few simple tasks. Don’t do it.The only thing you should be doing behind the wheel is driving. Anything else – eating, texting, grooming, etc. – is a distraction that endangers you, any passengers and bystanders.
Distracted driving contributes to over 400,000 car wrecks every year. There are three main types of distraction:
Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
Physical: Taking your hands off the wheel
Mental: Taking your mind off what you’re doing
Tips for Staying Safe and Focused
- Wear your seatbelt
- Plan your route ahead of time
- Preset any GPS devices before driving
- Do not operate handheld devices while driving (it’s the law in Texas)
- Drive defensively
- Be well-rested
- Avoid taking medication that makes you drowsy
- Adjust your driving for the conditions and towing heavy loads
Read more on traffic safety here.