Signs You’re Driving Distracted More Often Than You Should Be
**A contributed post as written for The Safe Driver.
Distracted driving may not have got you in any trouble so far, but eventually, it could put you or another person in hospital, or worse, a morgue. You might not think that you’re that much of a distracted driver, but after reading this guide, it might just become clear that you’re driving distracted more often than you should be. Read on for the signs to look for:
You Keep Your Phone On The Passenger Seat While You Drive
If you keep your phone on the passenger seat or somewhere else nearby when you drive, this is a big sign that you’re driving distracted. You can easily become distracted by flashing notifications, and it can be all too tempting to use your phone while at a standstill in traffic (and this is still illegal). You can only use your phone while you drive with hands free devices, and even then you need to make sure you’re not getting distracted. If you don’t appear to be in control of the car even while using these things, you’ll get into trouble.
You Adjust Your GPS While You Drive
If you adjust your GPS while you drive, you’re distracted, and you also stand to get in trouble. You shouldn’t even adjust a GPS app on your phone while in standstill traffic. You need to have your route figured out before you leave, so you can avoid touching anything while you’re on the road.
You Talk On The Phone While You Drive
If you’re talking on the phone while you drive, you’re distracted. Using a hands free device and talking too much can be distracting too. If you don’t pay attention to this advice, you’ll be speaking to a distracted driving lawyer on the phone next. You can call toll free, but that doesn’t mean you should get yourself into that situation.
You Get Lost In Your Thoughts As You Drive
Do you drive on auto pilot? This means you can’t possibly be driving defensively, because you’re not paying enough attention. Don’t let yourself get lost in your thoughts and ensure your attention is fully on the road.
You Let Your Children Distract You While You Drive
Having children in the car can be a big distraction while you drive. Make sure they are strapped in safely and comfortably, and that they have things to keep them quiet, especially if you’re on a long drive. Remember that getting angry and stressed puts everybody in danger, so keep yourself as calm as you can, even if your kids start arguing. If your child manages to get out of their seat or belt, pull over at the next safe place and remain calm.
You Look At Yourself In The Mirror
It doesn’t matter if you’re in slow traffic or even in standstill traffic, you shouldn’t be applying your lipstick or styling your hair. You can easily miss something on the road this way.
Are you driving distracted more often than you should be? Stop now before it’s too late!