Auto and driver risk management tips provided by: S.S. Nesbitt & Co., Inc.
Did You Know?
According to research done by the University of Utah, using a handheld or hands free mobile device slows a driver’s reactions as much as someone with a blood alcohol content of .08, the legal limit in all U.S. states. Using mobile devices to call, text or email is a leading cause of distracted driving.
“In 2015 alone, 3,477 people were killed, and 391,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers,” according to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
While there is little you can do to control other people’s driving, there is plenty you can do to reduce your own distractions.
DON’T TEXT AND DRIVE!
Text messaging is a useful way to communicate quickly, but safety should never be traded for convenience.
- Trying to write or read a text message while driving puts your full attention on your phone and not on the road, where it should be.
- Distracted driving due to mobile devices isn’t just a problem with teenagers. Drivers of all ages are susceptible to being dangerously distracted.
- Remember, just because a driver is more experienced does not mean that they can drive more safely while texting, calling or otherwise being distracted by a mobile device.
This advice may seem obvious, but every day there are new incidences of serious injuries and fatalities due to a person texting while driving. Because of the increasing danger of distracted driving, many states now outlaw the use of cellular phones in any capacity while driving, and your state may be one of them.
To avoid a ticket and a potentially dangerous accident, DO NOT USE YOUR CELLPHONE while driving. If you must absolutely make a phone call or text, pull off the road in a safe area and then do so.
Think you’ve got all the safe driving rules down? Test yourself on our drivers’ safety quiz.
DRIVER SAFETY: DISTRACTIONS
Distracted driving is driving while doing another activity that takes your attention away from the road and can greatly increase the chance of a motor vehicle crash.
There are three main types of distraction:
- Visual: taking your eyes off the road
- Manual: taking your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: taking your mind off of driving
By practicing safe driving techniques you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in an auto accident.
Multitasking at the Wheel
While there is little you can do to control other people’s driving, there is plenty you can do to reduce your own distractions. Do not engage in any of the following while driving:
- Touching up makeup or hair
- Talking with other passengers to the extent that you aren’t watching the road
- Smoking
- Adjusting the radio or other audio devices
- Allowing your dog to sit on your lap
- Eating
Stay Off the Phone
Cellphones are the most common driver distraction, and cellphone use results in many accidents every year. Driving while talking on the phone is dangerous because you cannot adequately divide your attention between the road and your conversation. If you must talk on your phone while driving, using a hands-free device will at least let you keep both hands on the wheel.
Even more dangerous than talking on the phone is texting. Texting while driving is comparable to drunk driving in terms of decreased reaction time and impairment. You should always refrain from texting, checking email, programming a mobile GPS device or using your phone in any way while driving. If necessary, silence or turn off your phone.
To combat the growing danger of phone use while driving, many states have enacted laws against texting and handheld cellphone use. Not only could you be endangering yourself and those around you, but phone use while driving could cost you a lot of money in fines.
Get Plenty of Rest
Driving any distance requires you to be physically and mentally well-rested. Fatigue plays a large role in motor vehicle accidents and can be a major element in driving distractions. If you become drowsy, pull off the road and take a short nap.
Know Where You Are Going
Before you set out for a new location, familiarize yourself with the route. If you need to check your map or call for directions along the way, pull over before doing so.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Alcohol is the single greatest contributing factor to fatal motor vehicle accidents. Never drive while intoxicated. If you are going to an event that serves alcohol, know how you’re getting home beforehand and act accordingly. If necessary, program the number for a taxicab service into your phone or call for an Uber. Be aware that some prescription medications may also have debilitating effects on your driving.
Practice Defensive Driving
In addition to avoiding distractions, you should give your full attention to driving defensively. This can help minimize the risk of an auto accident. It’s important that you are aware of other drivers around you and make adjustments to your driving accordingly.
This information is abstracted from Zywave’s “Live Well, Work Well” Newsletter and “Auto Insights” Newsletter.