Well evidently April is "Don't Drive Distracted" month! Whew! I almost missed it... so let's take advantage of the moment to talk about this subject. This might make someone aware of a bad habit and change their ways! This is of the utmost importance and can save lives, but unfortunately it mostly falls on deaf ears. But I’ll say it anyway… “DON’T TEXT AND DRIVE!” (ok, I yelled it.)
We live in a nation where owning a cell phone has become deadly! There is a very real addiction to technology and people just can’t put their phones down, even while driving a motor vehicle! I mean seriously, we all know that using a cell phone while driving isn’t a smart thing to do. So why do some continue to do it? Why would anyone want to drive while distracted?
But it's more than just using your cellphone while driving. There are many things that can distract us from paying attention while driving. Here are some examples in addition to cell phone usage: Setting your GPS, drinking, eating, tiredness, smoking, fixing your make up or using the mirror, children, pets, etc.
There are three main types of distraction:
- Visual: taking your eyes off the road
- Manual: taking your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: taking your mind off driving
It should go without saying, but every one should fully understand the consequences driving while distracted, especially purposely distracted. I’d like to believe that most of the people reading this blog post do not use their phone while driving. Well, you might not but if you’re of the older generation, there’s a good chance your child or grandchild does! And honestly, I’ve seen the older generation do it too! It is my intent in this blog post to get people to think and to encourage more conversations about the very real dangers. We can all do better.
Below I've listed a few web links if you wish to view the various statistics that provide complete insight. You may find these facts disturbing, but this is an essential read for anyone who wants to become a safer and more reliable driver. That’s a great end goal, don’t you agree?
Michigan Auto Law website has a great article auto safety and distracted driving: Michigan Texting and Driving Law: What You Need To Know
Surprisingly, the CDC is a very informative on this topic as well: CDC - Distracted Driving Info & Statistics
Carsurance - 24 Texting and Driving Statistics (Updated for 2020)
Sadly, auto accidents will happen. It's just a fact of life. But if we all do our part to drive less distracted, we can have a positive effect and help keep each other safer on the highways and byways.
Be safe out there and stay alert!
