One Simple Tip to Stop Distracted Driving

Have you ever sent a text message while you were driving?  Maybe tried to eat a flimsy soft shell taco or reach for your toddlers missing binky on the backseat floor board?  I’ve done all of those things, and I’m not proud of it.  I bet you’re not either.

I got to thinking about distracted driving and even though we all know how dangerous it is, so many people continue to do it.  I’m here to remind you today, once again, that you should stop.

Here is why

Every time you get into a car you are already at risk for an accident.  Now consider those factors that are wildly out of your control (other drivers, accidents, nature, etc.) and then make a conscious decision to add to them by doing something distracting.

Those thoughts stuck with me; how much higher my odds of a crash must be if I’m doing those things I mentioned above.  Then I saw these images on the “Decide to Drive” campaign website and I couldn’t ignore it.

In order to keep my eyes on the road and hands on the wheel (<— the one sure way to keep yourself from distraction) I’ve been utilizing a lot of voice operated features in my car.  I’m lucky enough to have a vehicle that can do almost anything just by me telling it to do so and really urge people to pursue those features if they’re available. But I realized one small, but certain way to keep yourself from distraction and its something you probably remember your parents shouting at you during your first drivers lessons:

Keep your hands on the wheel.

Really, it is that simple.  Every time you start to pull a hand off the wheel, ask yourself why you are doing it.  Am I just reaching up to adjust the sunglasses on my face, or am I about to pick up my cell phone?  If your answer the is latter, stop.

Save

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Auto Alliance want to increase awareness about the risks of distracted driving and they want you to help.  They’re hosting a contest for the best slogan or catch phrase and will be giving away three great cash prizes: two $500 gift cards and one $1,000 grand prize.  Hurry though, it ends on June 13th.

Remember, the most advanced safety feature of any vehicle is the driver. The AAOS and the Auto Alliance urges all drivers to keep their most sophisticated safety features engaged at all times: eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.