April is Distracted Driving Awareness month
Every motorist should focus on driving safely whenever they are behind the wheel. However, this doesn’t always happen. Most people find that they get distracted or take some unnecessary risks at some point when they are driving.
This month can be a good time to rededicate yourself to practicing safe driving habits, though; especially avoiding distraction while driving. This is because April is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Types of distraction drivers should avoid
Distracted driving can consist of any behavior that takes a driver’s hands, eyes or attention away from driving. Even brief moments of distraction can prove to be dangerous, so it is crucial to avoid the following distractions while driving:
- Eating
- Taking photos
- Typing destinations into GPS device
- Sending or reading messages on a phone
- Watching videos
- Grooming
- Trying to figure out an in-car infortainment system
“One of the leading causes for the rise in vehicle crashes”
Drivers who engage in these and other distracting behaviors pose a threat to themselves and others on the road around them. In fact, distraction is believed to be one of the primary reasons why the rate of car accidents has increased instead of decreased in recent years.
Focus on focusing in the driver’s seat this spring
Spring is a good time to dust off the cobwebs and commit to making a fresh start to driving safely. This time of year, there are more people getting out on the road which makes it that much more important to be attentive when you are driving.
You can also take this opportunity to talk to others about avoiding distracted driving. You might talk to your parents, your children or your friends and remind them that distractions can wait when they are driving.
It can also be important to remember that if you are injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver this season, you could be eligible to receive compensation from the negligent party. Discussing your options with an attorney in these situations can be helpful.