What do you think distracted driving means?
ANSWER
- Distraction occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task: driving safely. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.
- Driver inattention was a contributing factor in 10,958 Oklahoma crashes in 2015 (Oklahoma Department of Public Safety).
- Distractions now join alcohol and speeding as leading factors in fatal and serious injury crashes.
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What can you do to avoid these potential distractions?
- Don’t drive while calling or texting. Pull off the road to a safe location. Take a Message. Let your voice mail pick up your calls. It’s easier and safer to retrieve your messages later on.
- Keep your phone secure. Make sure your phone is secure—in a bag, your pocket or the glove compartment so it doesn’t slide off seats and compel the driver to reach for it while driving.
- Don’t take notes while driving. If you need to write something down, pull off the road to a safe spot.
- Don’t eat or drink while driving. Spills can easily cause a crash if you have to stop quickly.
- Groom yourself at home. Shaving, applying makeup, and brushing your hair are distractions that should not be done while driving.