All drivers are guilty of getting distracted while on the road every now and then. Unfortunately, being distracted while driving for long distances is known to be one of the leading causes of accidents on the roads. A lot of experienced drivers get a bit too comfortable behind the wheel, especially after driving for extended periods of time. But it may be time for all you motorists to get back to the focused 10 and 2 positions and ensure you’re being as safe as possible.
Here are some of the most common causes of distractions while driving and how to avoid them.
Using the Phone
In most countries, using cell phones is illegal while driving. Looking at your phone to text or even to just answer a phone call can have horrible consequences. In the odd case when you absolutely have to use your phone while on the road for an emergency, try to pull over first and make sure you turn off your vehicle’s engine before using your phone.
Eating or Drinking
Some people have busy lives and need to fit their meal times somewhere in their hectic day. But that cannot be an excuse for distracting yourself with handling food while driving on a busy road. Spilling your food or drink is one of the leading causes of accidents on the road.
Other Passengers
Believe it or not, having a large crowd of people in your car can be really dangerous. If you’re a new or young driver or perhaps both, the temptation to have friends with you in your car may be high. But all the noises and movement that are likely to occur on the drive with that many people in the same vehicle is not going to be safe.
Car Controls
If you’ve just purchased a new car and are curious about all those buttons on your dashboard and what each of them does, then try to hold back on investigating them to a time when you’re not driving. That split second when you look at a car control while driving and take your eyes off the road can cause you traumatic, uncalled for, consequences.
How to Seek Compensation in Case of an Accident
On the unlikely occasion that you’ve been involved in a car crash as a result of someone else’s distracted driving, out of no fault of your own, you will need to familiarize yourself with your rights and obligations when it comes to claiming compensation. The experienced attorneys at The Terry Law Firm can help you seek the necessary finances when filing for compensation. You need to always act quickly and fairly in these situations to get the rectification you deserve.
The most important thing to remember when hitting the road for long distances is that whatever it is that you think you have to do while driving, it can probably wait. Your safety, and the safety of others, is worth more than anything else. Think twice before driving if you don’t feel that you are as focused as you should be.