When you are behind the steering wheel, it is important to stay alert at all times and to act with caution.
The Arrive Alive website says talking on your cellphone is one of the biggest physical distractions that can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
Their best advice is not using cellphones when driving and let the phone ring if you don’t have hand free microphones.
Other physical distractions to a driver may be:
- Roadside activities such as accidents or vehicles stopped by the police or traffic officers.
- Reading road maps.
- Personal grooming such as shaving, applying lipstick or mascara, combing or brushing your hair.
- Changing clothing.
- Eating or drinking beverages.
- Searching for lost or fallen items.
- Tuning the radio, tape or CD players.
- Tending to small children and infants.
- Smoking.
Mental and emotional distractions such as strong emotions of anger and grief, driver fatigue or drowsiness, arguments or emotional conversations while driving may also be a distraction.
Also don’t allow technology to divert your concentration because inserting a CD or searching for a radio station is a much greater risk than glancing at the fuel gauge or speedometer.
When you are using complex devices such as a GPS or navigation systems take time to stop in a safe place before setting or resetting it.
The website says drivers can test their concentration by answering these questions:
- Are you prepared to avoid a car swerving in front of you?
- Can you avoid a pedestrian who suddenly steps into your path?
- Can you steer clear of debris falling from a truck?
