Not paying full attention to the road when driving can lead to a serious outcome. Don’t let anything distract you from the road because driving requires all your concentration.
There are three main sources of distractions: visual distractions (eyes off the road), manual distractions (hands off the wheel) and cognitive distractions (mind off the road).
In recent years, many awareness campaigns to prevent cell phone use while driving have been carried out. In addition to the telephone, there are many other distractions that can cause great harm. For example, even if they are not criminal, the role of more common distractions at the wheel, such as checking your GPS, eating or drinking, wearing makeup, giving instructions to children, trying to control a pet or handling the radio, should not be minimized. These are all distractions that can divert your attention from driving.
Regardless of the source of distraction, it is best to avoid taking risks for yourself and others on the road.
Reduce distractions
Here are some tips to minimize distractions on the road.
- Do not answer the phone or text messages. Use the “plane” or “in the car” mode of your smart device, or turn off the ringer and notifications;
- Plan your trips in advance so you don’t have to look for a route, and program your GPS before you leave;
Allow enough time to get to where you are going and avoid feeling rushed; - The volume of the music should not prevent you from hearing other vehicles’ tires squealing, horns or sirens around you;
- Place the objects you are carrying safely so that they do not fall or move around in the passenger compartment;
- Prepare the children before departure. If the trip is long enough, let them know what will happen. Organize your car: make them feel comfortable, prepare distractions and snacks, and plan breaks along the way;
- Do your hair or make-up before the trip… or on arrival!
What about insurance?
During a moment of inattention, you do not brake in time and you collide with the vehicle in front of you. Even if you have insurance coverage (“Collision” or “All Perils” coverage in Chapter B), be aware that you will be at fault for the accident.