How to Clear Distractions While Driving
A Healthier Michigan
| 4 min read
Each year, thousands of traffic accidents are caused by distracted driving. As recently as 2022, distracted driving caused more than 3,000 deaths. Even so, more than 45% of drivers have admitted to texting or reading their phone while driving, and even more eat or talk on the phone while driving. Here are some suggestions on how to clear distractions before you drive:
Remember the risks.
Operating a motor vehicle is a serious responsibility that can cause major harm and even death if not taken seriously. Remember that you have a responsibility to yourself, passengers, other drivers and pedestrians to give your full attention to the road and driving. Even a split-second lapse in focus can result in a distracted driving incident, especially when driving at high speeds or in busy areas. Take your role as a driver seriously and do your best to clear distractions before you hit the road.
Put your phone away and turn notifications off.
Phones are one of the main causes of distraction while driving. Handle any communications you need to before you get behind the wheel. You can turn your phone on do not disturb, use settings or apps that limit phone use during driving, or store your phone out of reach when you drive. If you use your phone for navigation, use a phone mount to allow for hands-free navigation and set your route before you turn on the car.
Secure belongings and avoid loose items.
Make sure you don’t have loose items that can fly or roll around the car when you’re driving. Objects can get lodged behind the pedals or cause distractions when they move around in the car. Find a car organization system that works for you. There are many car organization and storage products available that can help you limit the number of loose items in your car. Teach kids to put things away in the car before leaving.
Make sure kids and pets are sat and secured before driving.
Before you get in the driver's seat, make sure kids and pets are secure in their seat or carrier. Don’t let kids or pets on your lap or allow them to move around the car while you drive.
Check your seat and mirror adjustments before pulling away.
Make sure all your settings and adjustments are set before you drive. Check your mirrors, your seat and steering wheel settings, heat or air and other adjustments you may need before you drive. Not only does this ensure everything is in its place and you can see properly out of all mirrors, but it prevents any need to make adjustments when you’re already on the road.
Avoid eating while driving.
Do your best to eat and snack before driving. Get drinks and snacks out and ready for kids before you get moving. If you must eat while on the road, bring snacks and drinks that you can quickly grab and don’t require two hands.
Know or plan your route before driving.
Make sure to enter any destinations or routes into your navigation app or GPS system before you put the car into gear. Using a navigation app while driving is no better than texting or scrolling social media. It still requires your eyes, attention and even a hand on your phone. If you must use a navigation app, connect your car to your vehicle sound system, use Bluetooth or use a phone mount so you can quickly check the directions. Even better, if you have a passenger, let them use any apps or navigate for you.
If something urgent demands your attention, pull off the road to handle it.
There are times when emergencies or urgent situations may arise when you are driving. Sometimes, passengers get sick. You may have an important phone call you need to answer. If this is the case, pull off the road to handle it before continuing.
Don’t drive if you’re drowsy or under any influence.
If you are tired, sleepy or drowsy, it can severely affect your driving ability. Similarly, avoid driving if you have had anything that might impair or inebriate you. This includes any amount of alcohol, cannabis or any drugs or prescription medications that impair driving. Wait until you are sober and rested before getting behind the wheel.
