Distracted Driving Solutions: 6 Safety Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving

Did you know that April is Distracted Driving Awareness month? No matter what month it is, it’s important to prevent distracted driving. It’s no secret that distracted driving can have a devastating impact on safety for those in the car and others on the road — and distracted drivers are responsible for thousands of deaths every year. 

There’s good news: distracted driving prevention isn’t difficult. It just requires some mindfulness and good distracted driving safety tips. So, get safe behind the wheel this month with these distracted driving tips. 

1. Use Safe Driving Apps

You know you should stash your cell phone while you drive. But tossing it in the back seat doesn’t seem especially practical. If you’re having trouble not peeking at your cell phone while you’re driving, do yourself a favor and take advantage of special apps designed to prevent distracted driving — just be sure to download them before you hit the road.

LifeSaver detects when the car starts moving, then silences alerts and auto-replies to new messages. Drivemode Dash and Apple CarPlay will read texts aloud and uses voice controls to play songs, make calls and send messages. No need to type a “Be there soon!” text from a few blocks away — and yes , that’s dangerous, even on a quiet neighborhood street. Some apps, like Safe 2 Save and OnMyWay, reward safe drivers with incentives at local businesses and let you compete with friends and family.

2. Prepare for Your Trip

Don’t wait until you’re on the road to prepare for your drive. Whether you’re heading to work or on a road trip, take a minute to set up everything you might need so you don’t feel the need to change things and can focus on the road. Adjust your mirrors, plug your destination into your GPS app (turn up the sound to ensure you won’t need to see your phone screen) and turn on a podcast or a playlist you won’t want to miss.   Don’t forget to stash a water bottle — preferably one with a straw, not a cap — in an easy-to-access cup holder. And of course, make sure your climate control is set to your preferences.

3. Manage Your Passengers to Reduce Distractions 

Eliminating distractions isn’t just about seeing to your own needs. Avoid distracting activities by assigning adult passengers who can help you navigate, switch the tunes and answer calls or texts. 

Kids and pets, on the other hand, aren’t especially helpful passengers. We’ve all reached back to find the baby’s toy or stop the dog from climbing onto you. That quick second with your eyes off the road. can be catastrophic. 

The best way to avoid those distractions is preparation. If you have an animal that needs attention in the car, use a crate to make a safer ride for both of you. Arm the kids with snacks and toys before you start the car, and if a little one needs help, take the time to pull over so you can attend to their needs fully without putting anyone’s life at risk.

4. Avoid Eating and Drinking While Driving

A greasy burger or piping-hot coffee could spell trouble if you hit a bump. If you can, avoid chowing down on the road altogether. Eating before or after your trip is a great safe driving solution for you — and it helps prevents distractions while driving. In fact, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates eating or drinking from an open container increases the likelihood of a crash or near-miss crash by 39%. Take the extra time that you need to be safe.

5. Get Ready at Home

It’s tempting to use all those minutes stuck in traffic to apply make-up or get a head start on the day’s email, but the risk isn’t worth it. Fixing your hair is a visual, manual and cognitive distraction — impairing your ability to drive safely. Stay engaged with your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Set your alarm a few minutes earlier and take care of your pre-work routine at home. Your safety will thank you.

6. Drive Alert

We know we’re not at our best after a bad night’s sleep. If we struggle in a meeting or on a test, what about when behind the wheel? Drowsiness makes drivers less attentive and slows reaction and decision times. If you notice any signs of drowsy driving — like drifting, yawning or missing a turn — pull over and call someone. Safe driving means staying alert and maintaining full attention to the road at all times.

Professional Resources That Help

Avoiding distractions behind the wheel is everyone’s business. Our Young Driver Safety Program is designed to help the newest drivers develop safe driving habits. Our Driveology program rewards safe drivers, too. Contact your Farm Bureau agent to learn more.