While many distractions exist in today’s technology-driven world, the cell phone still reigns supreme when it comes to distracted driving. Using your phone while driving forces your brain to absorb a magnitude of stimulants and while many people are self-proclaimed “multi-taskers”, multi-tasking while driving is a dangerous myth!
The reality is, the human brain cannot do two things at the same time. Ever wonder why it is so hard to read a book and have a conversation with someone? The same is true when driving and talking on your phone! In order for the brain to handle both tasks, it must switch focus between them. Drivers talking on phones, whether hand-held or hands-free devices, miss up to 50% of what is around them, including other drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
“Hands-free devices offer no safety benefit when driving as they do not eliminate cognitive distraction.”
Are you guilty of driving distracted? Make the change with these few tips:
How To Be An Attentive Driver:
- Turn off your phone. Place it in your glove compartment, purse, or trunk.
- Send or read texts and email before you start driving. Long trip? Schedule breaks to stop, park safely, & respond to messages.
- Program your GPS before you put the car in “drive”. New route? Find a safe area to pull over & adjust your navigation.
- Social Media can wait. No tweet, status update, or picture is worth a life.
- Emergency texts are NOT an exception. If you must respond during your trip, pull over to a safe area first.
- Think of others. Don’t call or text friends & family if you know they’re driving.
Download this FREE Distracted Driving Infographic!
