Simple Steps to Avoid Distracted Driving That Save Lives
It only takes a second. You glance at your phone, look forward—react! Then your legs go weak and shaky, thinking of what might have been if you hadn’t narrowly missed that car.
The truth is that we could all use a little help on how to avoid distracted driving. With these simple steps, you and other drivers can. By learning to manage everyday distractions, you can ensure your family stays safe on the road.
The Distracted Driving Risks That We All Face
What feels harmless is actually a significant risk. “Texting while driving makes you 23% more likely to be involved in an accident,” says DSC Attorneys. But learning to avoid distracted driving goes beyond putting your phone down.
Restless children, barking dogs, urgent business calls, or a simple daydream can all lead to accidents.
The good news? Small changes to your driving habits can make a life-saving difference.
Safe Driving Behaviours To Minimise Driving Distractions
Here are solutions that are easy to adopt in the face of common distractions.
Dogs in the Back Seat
Your anxious pet is whining and moving around on the way to the vet.
- Calm your dog before getting in the car.
- Speak calmly and reassuringly; avoid excessive fuss.
- Ensure their safety and security. Secure them in a pet crate or carrier with a proper harness.
- Provide a toy or blanket with a familiar scent, which can be calming.
- Crack a window slightly for fresh air.
- Consider having someone else drive while you comfort your pet.
Children Demanding Attention
Kids don’t realise how much you need to concentrate when you’re driving. They may be excited to tell you about their day, or ask the age-old, “Are we there yet?”
- When you’re driving and in a calm environment, chat with your kids and set clear rules about expectations when you’re driving.
- Pack entertainment before you leave. Books, small toys, or tablets with downloaded content.
- Play simple games that don’t require your participation, like counting red cars.
- For longer trips, try fun road trip games that keep them engaged without distracting you.
Business Calls and Messages
Your phone buzzes with urgent messages from work. Let’s face it, everything feels urgent (even if it’s not), and does your phone ever really stop?
- Put your phone on silent before you even start the engine.
- Nothing is going to disintegrate in the time it takes you to traverse town.
- Use “Modes and Routines”, “Google Assistant Routines”, or “Focus and Shortcuts” to create an auto-reply message explaining that you’re driving.
- Pull over safely if you must respond to something truly urgent.
- Remember that even when stationary in traffic, looking at your phone is a hazard and increases your accident risk.
There is overwhelming evidence that cellphones significantly impair driving. Not only texting, but also calls and even just the audio distraction of ringing, contribute to road traffic accidents. It’s just not worth it. Please, put your device away when you’re behind the wheel.
Troublesome In-Car Technology
Searching for a new song or searching for directions while driving.
Fiddling with devices can lead to devastation. Practice these safe driving steps instead.
- Set your navigation and select your playlist before you leave.
- Adjust mirrors, seats, and climate control before you touch the ignition.
- Ask passengers to co-pilot and handle tech adjustments.
- Use voice commands when available.
Eating and Drinking, Especially on Long Trips
What’s so harmful about a snack?
With your hands, eyes, and mind diverted from the road, your reaction time is significantly slower. Studies show that eating can decrease reaction time by 44% (Pittman Law Firm). This delay can be the difference between avoiding an emergency and causing a collision.
- Try to time your trips so you can eat when you’re stationary.
- Keep a water bottle in an accessible cup holder.
- Never attempt to unwrap food or open containers whilst driving.
- On longer journeys, schedule regular stops every two hours to eat and stretch.
When Your Mind Wanders
Even with hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, your mind can drift. Here’s how to stay mentally present.
- Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and eating well daily.
- Have a light meal before driving. A heavy meal can cause drowsiness.
- Look out for potential hazards: the car ahead, your mirrors, and upcoming intersections.
- If you notice your thoughts wandering, try “commentary driving”. Talk through what you see and what you are doing. Say things out loud like, “Pedestrian on the left,” or “Car braking ahead”.
- Practice the defensive driving principles in the K53 system.
Essential Safety Reminders
Let’s go back to basics. These fundamentals are imperative.
- Obey speed limits. They’re designed for road conditions and visibility.
- Avoid aggressive driving. Road rage puts everyone at risk.
- Pull over safely. If you must address a distraction, find a safe place to stop.
- Keep a safe following distance. This gives you time to react if something unexpected happens.
Remember what we shared in our guide on what to do at the scene of an accident. Being prepared and staying focused are your best defences.
Distracted driving accidents are preventable. By implementing these simple strategies, you’re protecting yourself and making our roads safer for everyone.
Keep an extra layer of protection right by your side with Matrix. Explore the features and value-added services for your and your family’s safety.
For more information regarding distracted driving, road traffic accidents and what we have quoted in this blog, please visit:
- SARF, Driving distracted a leading cause of road crashes
- Govender IP, Masanabo DKK. Road traffic accidents, still a challenge in South Africa
- Western Cape Government, Distracted driving or walking
- DSC Attorneys, 8 Leading Causes of Road Accidents in South Africa
