There are many factors that can lead to a car accident. One element that can cause an automobile accident is the result of distracted driving. Distracted driving, essentially, is the act of engaging in other activities while operating a vehicle. While people tend to think of texting and driving, the truth is any action that takes away from your focus of concentrating on your driving can be considered distracted driving.
Even turning the radio station can be considered distracted driving and may lead to a car crash that could make you face serious monetary and legal punishments. As such, here are some tips that can help you reduce or eliminate distracted driving altogether.
Make All Your Preparations Before Driving
There is a wide list of actions that can lead to distracted driving and this includes having your vehicle organized the way you want or need it. Whether it’s making sure that the charger for your phone is already plugged in, that any items you may need are within reach, or simply making sure that your vehicle is free from clutter.
Avoid Eating or Drinking
Do your best to avoid eating or drinking while driving as this can be a recipe for disaster, even when it comes to handheld foods such as burgers. It’s better to eat before or after your drive. If you’re out on the open road and absolutely need something to quench your thirst or hunger, pulling off to the side of the road is your best bet.
Never Use a Phone
When it comes to distracted driving, the issue of people calling or texting is one that pops up often. If you need to make a phone call or send an urgent text, pulling off to the side of the road is your best bet. Although hands-free technology exists, it has been shown that such technology can also be dangerous when driving as well.
Make Sure You’re in the Right State of Mind
This tip can cover a wide range of categories. For starters, you never want to drive if you’re feeling tired or drowsy. Additionally, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is something you should never do. Even if you only had a couple of beers, if you’re feeling tipsy it’s better to either wait, have someone else drive, or call a cab.
Finally, being in the right state of mind may also refer to if you’re dealing with any emotional distress. For example, if you’ve just had a fight with your significant other and tensions are still high, you should take a few moments to calm down and relax before attempting to drive.
What to Do if You’ve Been Affected by Distracted Driving?
If you’ve been in an accident that you believe is the result of distracted driving then your best option is to contact a car accident attorney. Our friends at the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A. can help. They have experienced car accident attorneys that can help.