The
North Oaks Shock Trauma Team sees the consequences of distracted driving all too often. They offer
these top prevention tips to help you stay safe on the road:
- Fully focus on driving. Do not let anything divert your attention. Actively
scan the road, use your mirrors and watch out for motorcycles, pedestrians
and cyclists.
- Store loose gear, possessions and other distractions that could roll around
in the car, so you do not feel tempted to reach for them on the floor
or the seat.
- Make adjustments before your drive gets underway. Set your GPS, seats,
mirrors, climate controls and sound systems before hitting the road. Decide
on your route and check traffic conditions ahead of time.
- Finish dressing and personal grooming at home before you get on the road.
- Snack smart. If possible, eat meals or snacks before or after your trip,
not while driving. On the road, avoid messy foods that can be difficult
to manage.
- Secure children and pets before getting underway. If they need your attention,
pull off the road safely to care for them. Reaching into the backseat
can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
- Put aside your electronic distractions. Don’t use cell phones while
driving (handheld or hands-free) except in absolute emergencies. Never
use text messaging, email functions, video games or the internet with
a wireless device while driving—including those built into the vehicle.
- If you have passengers, enlist their help with other tasks so you can safely
focus on driving.
- If another activity demands your attention, pull off the road and stop
your vehicle in a safe place , instead of trying to attempt it while driving.
To avoid temptation, power down or stow devices before getting underway.
- As a general rule, if you cannot devote your full attention to driving
because of some other activity, it’s a distraction. Take care of
it before or after your trip, not while you’re behind the wheel.