Distracted Driving is Dangerous Driving

Drivers education is an incredibly valuable tool in reducing the number of annual driving related deaths in the United States. These courses teach and train drivers to follow traffic laws and safe driving practices. This is the first step in lowering driving related deaths. Today it is easier than ever to take a drivers ed course because it is online and can be taken at any time and location that is convenient. All states should require a drivers ed course as a necessary step in reducing the number of driving related deaths.

Distracted driving is an often-overlooked dangerous driving habit. As a mom of three kids, I see how easy it is to become distracted while behind the wheel. Crying babies, eating on the go, and trying to get to school pickup on time can appear to be normal in this season of life, but it is important for moms to prioritize the safety of their children and themselves. The safety of a crying child is more important than their comfort or happiness. It is important to always make sure every passenger is buckled and in the proper car seat for their age, height, and weight. Waiting to eat so both hands can be on the wheel is a necessary sacrifice. Set a reminder to leave in plenty of time to pick up kids from school. This will also lower stress and anxiety.

Phones should not be used while driving. If a phone call, text message, or navigation can’t wait, the safest thing to do is pull the car over and resume driving once the phone is put away. A friend of mine was once in an accident while driving her children just because she looked down at her phone navigation for a couple of seconds.

Another important practice drivers can have to be safer on the road is to slow down. So many accidents could be avoided if we weren’t in so much of a hurry. An accident or a speeding ticket only increases the amount of time it takes to reach your destination. It is also important to look twice before changing lanes to ensure there are no motorcycles next to the vehicle.

When in the car with a friend or family member trying to multitask while driving, kindly request they focus on driving safely or offer to drive instead. Putting away distractions, staying within the posted speed limit, always wearing a seatbelt, and looking twice before changing lanes or turning are some practices that will greatly reduce accidents and allow more drivers and passengers to reach their destination safely. There are an average of 34,000 driving related deaths in the United States each year. Imagine the lives that could be saved if more drivers followed the safe driving practices taught in drivers ed.