According the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, 391,000 individuals were injured & 3,477 were killed from distracted driving in 2015. Insurance premiums have skyrocketed because of distracted driving and increases in traffic accidents. Distracted driving isn’t just talking on the phone or texting but can include reading articles or email, eating, brushing your hair, or any other way you’re trying to multi-task while driving.
Consider practicing good driving behavior by mastering these 5 habits every time you get inside your vehicle.
1.) Put your phone OUT of reach when entering your vehicle.
The back seat or placed in your bag or purse inside your trunk, along with other belongings can be a good start. If you can’t fathom doing this, continue to ask yourself, “Can it wait?” every time you want to reach for your device. Most likely it can. It may help to put your phone on mute to avoid the desire to reach for it when it alerts you of an incoming call or new text message/email. If you feel you always have to be readily available to take a phone call, pull your car over & park it before answering the call.
2.) Program your GPS or identify where you need to go before driving your vehicle.
Be sure to activate voice commands so your eyes can stay on the road 100% of the time.
3.) Groom Before or After, Not While Driving or Sitting at a Stop Light
If you find yourself running late often & grooming last minute, transition yourself out of the habit of grooming while driving. Practice doing this once you’ve arrived at your location or before you even start your vehicle.
4.) Eat While Parked
Don’t risk eating and driving. Instead, simple park your car and eat your meal before getting back on the road.
5.) Be a Role Model for Your Friends and Family
Not only demonstrate to your kids how you do not drive distracted, but also explain the dangers of doing it. If you find yourself riding along with a friend or family member, speak up if the driver is using an electronic device while driving. Offer to deliver their text message for them, act as the co-pilot or make the phone call.
If we all practice safe driving habits, we will all be better off.
If you have questions about your auto insurance, call the insurance agents at Bordelon Insurance in Bellevue, WA. We have years of insurance experience and can help you insure everything from your home to your auto or motorcycle. We live where you do and are an independent insurance agent, so we can help you find the right company to fit your needs. You can also check out our website, 24/7.