Distracted Drivers Still Plague the Roads

Distracted Drivers Still Plague the Roads

There are very few things that you can’t do with a smart phone these days. You can Google something in the blink of an eye, look up a song that’s playing on the radio, text and receive replies faster than ever, and take high quality photos. While there are many benefits, we’re also continuing to see more and more accidents caused by drivers who are distracted by their phones.

According to Teen Safe, there are an average of 3,287 deaths each day due to fatal car crashes and on average, 25% of those are related to distracted driving, something that’s extremely preventable. It’s also said that 58% of teen crashes are caused by driver distraction.

So how do you prevent some of these accidents? While not texting and driving can be extremely helpful, you can’t stop others from texting and driving.

1. Focus on driving

This means keeping 100% of your attention on driving at all times. While it may be tempting to use your phone at a red light, there are still things you need to be looking out for. Follow the speed limit and focus on what’s happening around you.

2. Drive defensively

Be aware of what others are doing around you. Driving defensively is all about expecting the unexpected and assuming other drivers will do something out of the norm, that way you have time to prepared to avoid it. This means driving a safe distance away from the car in front of you. Kids Health recommends using the 3 to 4 second rule and increasing it if the weather conditions are poor.

3. Have an escape route

Say the car in front of you slams on their brakes because they weren’t paying attention. Having an alternate path is essential if you want to prevent rear ending that vehicle. Whether it be pulling to the side or moving to another lane, scanning the roads consistently will help you plan out your route.

4. Don’t drive without insurance

Not only is this illegal but if you get into an accident, you can face penalties such as fines, loss of your license and registration, and even jail time. And to top it all off, you’ll have to pay for all of the damage to your vehicle out of your own pocket. There is also the possibility of being sued by the others involved for damage and injury.

If you’re unsure of where to start with insurance or you’re unhappy with your current provider, contact the agents at Petruzelo Insurance. We’ll help you not only save money but keep you protected.