When it comes to the digital world, we have become accustomed to using our phones for everything from communicating, finding nearby services, mapping routes, and even taking notes. Having the world at your fingertips 24/7 is part of our lifestyle and can be hard to turn off. But when it comes to driving, we need to take a break from our phones and focus on the road. Distracted driving is not only dangerous, it’s deadly. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, the number of people killed in distraction-affected crashes was 3,328 in 2012, while an estimated 421,000 people were injured. (NHTSA).
The Myth of Multitasking
When speaking with others about distracted driving, specifically texting while driving, I am amazed at how many people tell me they are very good at multi-tasking, or they use voice text so it’s okay. Do you agree? I’m here to tell you you’re fooling yourself and putting everyone in the community at risk! First of all, multi-tasking is a Myth! Second, did you know that the average time your eyes are off the road while texting is 5 seconds? If you’re traveling at 55mph, you could travel an entire football field during that time. (VTTI)
Planning Ahead
When you’re moving, you’re often faced with tasks like coordinating loading/unloading, finding the nearest gas station or restaurant, or just plain boredom from driving. To avoid distracted driving, plan ahead. Here are a few tips:
- Make a moving playlist ahead of time.
- Plan your route in advance including stops and breaks.
- Get someone to ride along with you, and have them be the designated texter. They will also keep you company!
- Put your phone out of sight, or on silent. Take this time to enjoy the ride and the scenery!
For more tips on how to stop texting while driving, visit stoptextsstopwrecks.org
Distracted Driving Awareness Month
U-Haul International has started an online pledge for April’s distracted driving awareness month, asking the community to stop texting while driving. They have invested in this cause because they know that the phenomenon of driving distracted put its customers, team members and the community at risk, and it needs to stop.
Will you take the pledge to stop texting while driving? Do you have any tips to stop driving distracted? What distractions do you face while driving? Share with us below!
