Personal prevention of distracted driving: Keep yourself safer

Most people understand just how big of a problem distracted driving has become. This behavior causes thousands of motor vehicle accidents every year, with many resulting in serious injury and death.

As a driver, you don’t want to contribute to this problem. Instead, do your part in keeping the roads safe. There are a variety of personal prevention tips you can use to avoid the perils of distracted driving:

• If you can’t focus all your time and attention on the road, you should pull over for the time being. This is the best way to avoid a distracted driving related accident.
• Let your passengers know that you won’t be able to spend much time conversing with them, as you will be paying close attention to the road and other drivers.
• Store any loose gear out of sight, as you don’t want to find yourself reaching for something while you are concentrating on driving.
• Never use a cellphone when driving. This includes everything from sending and receiving text messages to talking. Any type of cellphone use can increase the chance of an accident.
• Don’t partake in any personal grooming activities while driving. The last thing you want to do is attempt to apply makeup or do your hair when you are behind the wheel.
• Refrain from eating or drinking while driving. It’s easy to believe you can save time by doing this, such as eating your breakfast while you drive, but it’s a risk you should not be willing to take.

Most drivers find it difficult to avoid distractions, but realize that it’s something they must do to remain safe.

If you are ever part of an accident with a distracted driver, move your car to safety and wait for police to arrive at the scene. They can create a report with information on what happened, which will come in handy in the future as you seek compensation for your injuries and other damages.