If you’re a vigilant driver, then chances are you try to stay as safe as possible when you’re behind the wheel. Unfortunately, there may be one big risk that you’ve overlooked — distracted driving. Distracted driving can be nearly as dangerous as impaired driving, often leading to serious wrecks that could have been easily avoided.

To make sure that you stay safe in the car at all times, it’s important that you learn a few tips for avoiding distracted driving and minimizing the chance of having a deadly collision.

Put Away Your Phone

Most people simply cannot be without their phone. It is both a source of entertainment and a way to keep in touch with friends and family. However, it is also one of the biggest causes of distracted driving. Even if you’re not actually using your phone, the temptation to glance at it when you get a text or notification can be too tempting.

If you want to make sure that your focus is entirely on the road, put your phone away until you’ve reached your destination.

Take a Break

Almost everyone has had that experience where you’re suddenly struck by a bout of drowsiness while driving. While it can be tempting to fight through this feeling so that you can stay on the road, drowsy driving is distracted driving, which also makes it dangerous driving.

When you feel yourself getting sleepy behind the wheel, pull off the road for a little while. Stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and don’t start driving again until you’re fully awake.

All About Music

There’s almost nothing better on a road trip than finding the perfect tune unless searching for that ideal song is distracting you from driving properly. Using your car’s radio while driving can distract you from the road and cause you to lose control of your vehicle, possibly leading to a devastating wreck.

If you’re the type of person who absolutely has to have music while in the car, plan ahead. Pick your radio station, CD, or MP3 playlist before you start driving. This will allow you to enjoy your music without risking distracted driving.

Eat at Home

While you’re taking a drive, there are almost endless opportunities to get food to eat in the car. Although it’s become common practice for many drivers, eating while operating a vehicle is a great way to be distracted. If you simply can’t resist the siren call of the drive-thru, put your food in the passenger seat and save it to eat at home. For road trips, take the time to sit down and eat instead of trying to save time by eating while driving.

Plan Your Route

To keep your focus on the road, you should be sure to plan your route beforehand. By plotting your trip before you get behind the wheel, you’ll be able to avoid constantly referencing maps and taking your attention off of the task at hand.

Avoid common causes of distracted driving, and you’ll be able to ensure that all of your time spent in the car is happy and safe.

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