Imagine closing your eyes for about five seconds while driving 55 mph on a highway. That's like crossing a football field blindfolded. Unfortunately, this is the reality many face when they check their phones behind the wheel. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to remind ourselves that staying focused saves lives and money.
The Financial Consequences
Distracted driving not only leads to potential accidents but also impacts your wallet. Just one ticket for using your phone can lead to higher insurance premiums. Insurance companies factor in driving behaviors, and distracted driving marks you as a higher-risk policyholder, inevitably increasing your costs.
The Impact of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents nationwide. Shockingly, even talking on the phone can reduce brain activity associated with driving by 37%. These distractions, minor as they might seem, can lead to serious accidents that could have been avoided.
Simple Ways to Stay Focused Behind the Wheel
- Utilize your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, or stow it away in the glove compartment or center console to resist the urge to check it.
- Avoid distractions such as loud music, engaging podcasts, or talkative passengers that could divert your attention from the road.
- Consider using safe-driving apps that reward focused driving practices, providing an incentive to stay concentrated.
Remember, safe driving is more than just adhering to the law; it’s about protecting your life, those of your passengers, and everyone else sharing the road. By making small changes to your driving habits, you can prevent accidents and potentially save money on your insurance premiums.