Distracted driving is the leading cause of horrific and deadly car accidents. From fiddling with the audio to eating to checking your phone, they're all very dangerous. As a responsible driver, you should freshen up your knowledge of distracted driving and get pointers on improving your focus on the road!
CELL PHONE
As you have probably guessed, your phone is the biggest distraction of all. You should not even be on your phone in the first place, considering most states have laws enforced to restrict texting and phone calling while driving. It is best to put your phone on "Do Not Disturb" and out of your sight whenever you get behind the wheel.
MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
Finding the perfect temperature or your favorite music is a difficult task when operating a vehicle. It may be a natural habit for you, but some studies suggest that it's a common cause of traffic fatalities. It would be best to adjust your control systems and set aside a playlist before you leave the driveway.
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Whether it's taming your hair or applying makeup last minute, doing both requires you to take your eyes off the road. More importantly, it may involve taking both your hands off of the steering wheel. This is a highly hazardous circumstance, and you should wait until you get to your destination to finish freshening up.
EATING OR DRINKING
Did you know that eating or drinking accounts for approximately 2% of all distracted vehicle accidents? That's a lot of mishaps when you consider that the number of distraction-caused accidents is in the hundreds of thousands range. Most people struggle to eat without looking or holding their food. With one or both hand(s) off the wheel, you are putting yourself at a huge risk.
ADJUSTING CARGO
Reaching for items in the gaps between the seats, searching for something in a bag, and craning an arm into the backseat to get something are all distractions that may put you at risk of a collision.
AUTOMOBILE ISSUES
If your car suddenly drives rough, blows a weird stench, or makes an unusual noise, then it can really throw off your driving. These things are all terrible traffic disturbances. Your best bet is to pull over somewhere safe to call for assistance or wait until you can get to H B & Auto C. As we've emphasized before, good driving habits and good car care go hand in hand. Give us a call or visit our shop today if you encounter any auto problems.