Resolve to Ditch Distracted Riving

Distracted driving can have serious consequences. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,166 people in 2017 alone. This New Year make a resolution to ditch the distractions while behind the wheel. Here are our top tips to help you stay focused on the road ahead:

Never text and drive.
According to NHTSA, texting is the most concerning distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed! Before hitting the road, put your phone on do not disturb, and place it in your purse, backpack, or even in the truck of your car to help you fight the temptation to look at it while driving.

Need to use your phone? Pull off the road.
If you must make a call, return a text or do anything else that would take your attention off the road, find a safe spot and pull over.

Get set before you go.
Plug your destination into your GPS and adjust your seats, mirrors, music and climate control before you step on the gas.

This goes for children and pets too.
Before you start your drive, make sure your children and pets are all settled in. If they need your attention while on the road, pull off in a safe spot to care for them. Reaching into the backseat while driving can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

Actively scan the road for hazards.
Use your mirrors and watch out for animals, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Don’t eat or drink while driving.
Eating and drinking can take your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road. Eat meals or snacks before or after your trip, not while driving.

Let passengers give you a hand.
If something is distracting to you, ask a passenger to take care of it, so you can focus on driving.

Stay safe on the road with coverage from AAA Insurance.
Visit: AAA.com/Insurance | Call: 1-855-282-2275

The information listed in this article was obtained from sources believed to be reliable. AAA South Jersey, its affiliates and employees assume no liability in connection with the information or suggestions. The recommendations provided are general in nature; there may be additional safety procedures available that are not referenced in this article.