Cases of accidents are very common today. Although some accidents occur due to unavoidable circumstances, others could be avoided if only drivers were more careful and avoid being distracted when driving. It is paramount for drivers to know that they require their undivided attention and must put their focus on the road to make sure that they do not cause accidents. The sad thing is that despite the importance of keeping their eyes and attention on the road, many people multitask when driving. Learning some of the common distraction can help you drive safely.
The first common distraction is fatigue. Many people drive their cars when whey they are tired physically to drive safely. When a driver is exhausted, it is not easy for them to focus on the road, and they at times behave like drunk drivers. In case the drivers are very tired, chances of falling asleep while driving and eventually losing control are very common. In case you feel very tired as you drive, consider pulling over to relax or take some caffeine to help you keep awake. If you are driving for a long distance, consider having someone who can help you with driving.
Another common distraction is talking on a phone while driving. Whether you use earphones or be on a loudspeaker, speaking on the phone when driving may make you behave like a drunk driver. In case your phone rings while driving, or you want to make an important call, pull aside to a safe place where you can safely make your call. Texting is also another common distraction that is quite common today. Research has shown that drivers who text while behind the wheel are slow while braking in case of emergencies. Teenage drivers, in particular, are the most affected when it comes to texting when driving.
Although driving under the influence is illegal in the United States, cases of accidents that happen due to drunk driving are very common. Actually, nearly 12,000 accidents happen every year as a result of drunk drivers. You can prevent this by using public transport or having a designated driver after taking alcohol.
MP3 players, CD players, and radio can also distract a driver behind the wheel. A driver can take his or her eyes off the focus while changing a song. You can prevent this by selecting music before you start driving and avoiding changing songs. You can also have someone else change the songs on your behalf.
Conversations inside the vehicle involving the driver can also be a cause of distraction. It is important to keep such conversations light. Passengers should also ensure that they do not argue with the person driving because arguing may keep the concentration of the driver off the road.
It is also wrong to eat while driving. This is common with drivers on the go. They feel that eating while driving help to save time. However, an accident can occur when the driver takes his or her eyes off the road to pick some more food, or to throw away the peels.