It’s a fact.  Distracted driving has become an epidemic. 

In 2021, 3,522 lives were lost because of it.  Young drivers seem prone to using their phones while driving, but cell phone usage among older drivers is also common.  (How many times have you been at an intersection and you can see another driver on their phone texting?)

7 Examples of distracted driving:

1. Texting
2. Socializing
3. Drinking coffee
4. Grooming
5. Setting your GPS
6. Adjusting your radio
7. Adjusting your seatbelt

How many of these do you do when you are driving?  I am guilty of every single one!

Helpful tips for responsible driving:

Before you begin driving:

• Adjust your seat and seatbelt.
• Set your GPS and adjust your radio.
• Do your makeup and coffee sipping.

Phone Usage:

• To send or read a text, pull over and park in a safe location.
• Consider installing an app that auto responds to text messages that arrive while you are driving.
• Make your passenger your designated texter.
• Resist scrolling while driving.  Your newsfeed can wait!

Socializing

• Limit the number of passengers in a vehicle.
• Keep your eyes on the road.
• Avoid interacting with passengers.

Recruit Help

• Ask your passengers to tell you to focus on the road if you become distracted.
• If you’re a passenger, do the same for your driver.
• Have your passengers help with navigation.

In the grand scheme of things, your phone can wait.  Arrive at your destination safely!