Avoid Driver Distractions — For Everyone’s Safety!

#1: Focus. Focus.

Anything that takes your eyes or mind off the road, or your hands off the steering wheel is a potentially deadly distraction. So make sure to always stay alert and focused while driving and avoid distractions whenever possible. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the leading causes of distracted driving are: 

• Texting/Cell Phone Use. Texting and cell phone use are potential hazards at any speed but zero. If you must communicate while on the road, be sure to use a hands‐free device or pull over and stop in a safe place first.
• Reaching for a moving object inside the vehicle. These common distractions include falling ashes from a cigarette, an insect, spilled coffee or other beverages, an unsecured pet among others.
• Looking at an object or event outside the vehicle. Examples include: an accident, a vehicle pulled over by law enforcement, construction work, a scenic view, street names/addresses. •
• Reading. Reading books, magazines, newspapers, maps or directions are all distractions and should be avoided while driving.
• Applying makeup, or any other form of personal grooming such as shaving, hair brushing is yet another potentially deadly action. 

#2: Expect the Unexpected.

When you are driving, the condition of the roadway and the behavior of other drivers can change abruptly, leaving you little or no time to react. Check your rear and side view mirrors frequently and be aware of your surroundings. You will be better prepared to react when the unexpected occurs.