What can you do to avoid distractions while driving?

If you have ever attempted to eat, text or even take a picture while driving, you are one of many Washington residents who do the same thing every day. The truth however, is that doing anything other than driving while behind the wheel can cause detrimental consequences including lapses in judgment that could result in injury or death to you, your passengers and other motorists. Fortunately, by practicing self-control and being aware of the behaviors that are distractions, you can avoid putting yourself and others in harm’s way.

Geico has provided you with a list of tips for preventing distraction and maintaining focus on the road. Some of the things you should be aware of include the following:

  • Cell phones are for emergencies only: While you may be tempted to respond to texts, answer calls and write emails while driving, your electronic device should only be used for emergencies. If an important message is beckoning immediate attention, find a safe place to stop before responding. 
  • Save your snack for later: Eating while driving is a common behavior. There have probably been times when you decide to save yourself some time while eating breakfast on the way to work or having a quick snack on your way to the gym. However, if you are eating, your attention is diverted away from the road. In fact, people who accidentally spill their food are some of the most common culprits of distracted driving accidents.
  • Be well-rested: Drowsy driving is never worth the risk. You may be confident in your ability to continue driving even if your eyes feel heavy, but all it takes is a second of distraction for you to lose control and cause an accident. If you feel tired while you are driving, immediately pull over and take a rest to guarantee that you arrive at your destination safely. 

The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice.