Tips to Combat Distracted Driving

Sussex WI

27 April, 2022

12:33 PM

Description

National Distracted Driving Awareness Month may be coming to a close, but road safety should be a priority year round. Here are some tips, tricks and reminders from West Bend Mutual Insurance Company to combat distracted driving and make the streets safer for fellow drivers, pedestrians, and yourself. Slow downFrom changing traffic patterns for new construction projects to stormy weather that limits road visibility, the road ahead might be unpredictable or unfamiliar. Driving more slowly when unsure of what is ahead is an important way to avoid accidents. Speeding will not help a driver get to a destination quicker, but it will increase the risk of collisions. Put down the phoneTalking on a cell phone while driving is the most common form of distracted driving, followed by texting and internet use. Resist the urge to take calls or respond to messages while behind the wheel by silencing your device while driving or setting up a text auto-reply to be sent to those trying to reach out. If driving with a passenger, ask them to answer or make calls and messages on your behalf. Hands on the wheelPhones aren't the only thing taking our attention off the road and our hands off the wheel. Avoid multitasking while driving and be sure to eat, apply makeup, or deal with any fussy backseat passengers while the car is parked in a safe place. Before hitting the road, adjust your seat and mirrors, get the radio tuned or the GPS running, and make sure all passengers are buckled up and ready to go. Young or new drivers should limit the car to one passenger at a time to mitigate distractions. Practice makes perfectThe best way to build safe driving habits is to drive safely every day. For young drivers, West Bend Mutual Insurance has partnered with Road America's Teen Driving Program to build defensive driving skills and hone safe driving techniques. West Bend Mutual Insurance policyholders can receive a discount for Road America's Teen Driving Program and can learn more about the program and upcoming dates on the West Bend Mutual Insurance website. Learn more about preventing distracted driving and find other resources at thesilverlining.com/focus.