How to Prevent Distracted Driving
Distractions are everywhere in today’s fast-paced world, making the common phrase “keep your eyes on the road” more important than ever. Whether it’s kids in the back seat, your smartphone, or loud music, there are numerous forms of distraction as a driver.
Over 3,000 people die in distracted-driving related accidents in the U.S. every year. All it takes is one false move, one split-second, or one quick look at your phone for these distractions to cause accidents and injuries. The good news is that many common distractions are highly preventable. By staying focused on the road, you can help contribute to a safer driving environment for yourself, your passengers, and everyone around you.
Understanding distracted driving
Distracted driving refers to any activity that takes your attention away from driving. Distractions can range from talking to passengers or texting to adjusting the music or eating. Other common distractions may include entering directions into a navigation system, applying makeup, handling pets, and even daydreaming while driving. Safe driving requires your full, undivided attention at all times.
There are three main types of distracted driving: visual, manual, and cognitive.
How can you prevent distracted driving?
- Put away your cell phone
- Utilize features/apps that block incoming calls and messages while driving
- Use voice commands for navigation, phone calls, and other functions
- Set your destination before you hit the road
- Adjust music and climate before leaving
- Avoid eating while driving
- Keep passengers to a minimum
- If you feel tired or sleepy, pull over and take a break
What are the state laws for phone usage while driving?
Using a cell phone in any way while driving significantly increases your risk of accidents. Nearly every state has some level of electronic device laws. Here are the laws for states where many Alfa® customers live:
Mississippi: Texting while driving is against the law; this includes reading, writing, or sending text messages. Drivers with learner’s permits or intermediate licenses are banned from all handheld phone use while driving.
Alabama: Holding a cell phone or any other electronic device while driving is against the law.
Georgia: Holding a cell phone or any other electronic device while driving is against the law.
The consequences of distracted driving
While young drivers are often criticized for their lack of focus behind the wheel, they aren’t the only ones—any driver can fall victim to distractions. Distracted driving can have severe consequences that go far beyond a dented bumper. It not only leads to injuries and potential fatalities but can also result in legal penalties, such as fines and points added to your driving record. Nine people in the United States are killed every day in car accidents involving a distracted driver. This statistic highlights the critical need to stay focused on the road to save lives and reduce accidents.
As a parent, you have the power to be a good influence on your children and create healthy habits for when they reach the driving age. New drivers learn by example, so practice your own safe driving by putting away any possible distractions before you start your trip. If you have a new driver, encourage them to make a pledge to prevent distracted driving and follow safety guidelines.
The impact of distracted driving on your Auto Insurance
Safe driving not only protects you and others but also helps keep your insurance premiums down. Distracted driving leads to a higher risk of accidents, which results in insurance claims. Claims may cause your auto insurance premium to increase because insurance companies see you as a higher risk. Getting tickets for distracted driving can also result in a higher premium. In some cases, repeated incidents of distracted driving may even affect your ability to qualify for an auto insurance policy.
Alfa is here to help you navigate the roadways safely and ensure you have the coverage you need. For more information on reliable auto insurance options, contact an agent near you.