We all know how important it is to stay focused while on the road, but how do you break bad habits when it comes to distracted driving? Whether you feel pressured by your work or want to stay in contact with friends, texting while driving often seems simple. Unfortunately it can be fatal, even when you feel like it would never happen to you. These tips will give you some easy ways to put down the phone and stay focused on the road.
Audio
Music, audio books and podcasts are a great way to stay entertained on the road without getting distracted. Audio content is engaging and entertaining if you find something you enjoy, making it easy to forget about the phone. Instead of texting your friends and making plans to hang out, you’ll have a blast catching up with the latest episodes of your favorite radio show or newscast.
This is one of the easiest ways to put the phone down while you drive, provided you don’t need to surf the radio or search for a new song. Make a playlist before you head out and you can enjoy all the music you want with none of the dangers of driving while distracted.
High-Tech Cars
For those of us with larger budgets, cars with built-in Bluetooth technology and navigation systems can be a literal life-saver. Instead of going for your phone if you really must communicate while on the road, you can take advantage of convenient technology to call your friends and coworkers. It’s easier than ever to talk on the road without holding a phone or fumbling through your contacts. Although high-tech cars can be expensive, they sure do the trick.
Distraction Is Serious
You’d be surprised at how much more attention you have for the task at hand when you aren’t juggling texting and driving at the same time. Eliminate distractions by simply putting the phone away. Even a simple text can make you miss important obstacles on the road, including pedestrians. No one wants to hit a cyclist in the bike lane or another car driving too slowly, but it is simply too easy and too common when texting while driving. If you’re even partially distracted, your life is at stake as well.
All in all, it’s clear that driving while distracted is not worth the risk. These tips are sure to help you break bad habits and stay focused in your vehicle.