Distracted driving, particularly related to cell phone use and in-vehicle digital displays, has become one of the most significant factors in vehicle accidents in the U.S NASCAR star Erik Jones shares tips and advice for reducing distractions on the road, with a special focus on April – National Distracted Driving Month.
- Before you put your car in gear, check your messages and texts to answer anything outstanding.
- Set an automatic response that tells everyone that for safety reasons, you no longer answer calls or respond to messages while driving.
- Put your phone on silent when you get into your car and connect to your screen display in the talk to text mode, if needed.
- If you’re driving with friends, put someone else in charge of music and selfies, but make sure they aren’t distracting the driver!
- If you are out late or too tired to drive, sleep over or call for a taxi or FHV.
- Listen to your GPS device. Set up your destination directions to listen to audio instructions; try to avoid looking at the map.
- Adjust your seat and mirrors before you drive – and if you’re driving a rental car, make sure you’re familiar with all the controls in advance.
- Pull over if you need to make a call or check a message.
Source: The National Auto Body Council
