Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in the USA.
Whether it’s texting, eating, or changing the radio station, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can have catastrophic consequences.
That’s why it’s so important to stay focused when you are behind the wheel.
Here are nine tips to help you always keep your eyes on the road and stay as safe as possible while driving.
Table of Contents
1. Put Your Phone Away
One of the best ways to make you never take your eyes off the road is to put your phone away before you even start driving.
This means turning it off, silencing any notifications, and keeping it out of reach until you reach your destination.
Doing so eliminates any potential distraction from incoming calls or text messages and prevents you from being tempted to check your phone while driving.
2. Eat Before or After You Drive
Eating and drinking can be a major distraction when you are behind the wheel, so it’s best to avoid doing this while driving.
Try eating before or after you drive to ensure that your focus stays on the road at all times.
If you do need to eat or drink while driving, make sure that it is something simple and easy to consume without taking your eyes off the road for too long.
3. Keep Both Hands on the Wheel
The classic 10 and 2 hand placement on the steering wheel has been around since the days of manual cars, but it’s still just as important today.
Keeping your hands in this position gives you a better grip on the wheel and allows for more accurate steering.
If you’re not a fan of 10 and 2, try another comfortable position that keeps both hands on the wheel.
It also helps to ensure that you are always paying attention to the road ahead of you, rather than letting your eyes wander elsewhere.
4. Program Your GPS Before You Drive
GPS navigation can be a great help when it comes to finding your way, but it can also be very distracting if you are trying to enter information while driving.
Before you start your trip, take the time to program your GPS with the address of where you’re going so that you don’t have to do it on the move.
This will ensure that you can keep your eyes on the road at all times.
5. Avoid Talking to Passengers
Having someone in the car with you can be a great way to pass the time, but it’s important to remember that talking to passengers while driving can be a major distraction.
If possible, try to limit conversations while driving and avoid getting involved in long, drawn out conversations.
6. Check Your Mirrors
Before you even start driving, make sure to check your mirrors and adjust them so that they fit your needs.
This will ensure that you have the best view of what’s behind you, so you can easily monitor cars passing by and other vehicles on the road.
7. Stay Alert
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as distracted driving, so make sure to get enough rest before you get behind the wheel.
When you start to feel sleepy while driving, pull over and take a break until you are feeling more alert and focused.
8. Minimize Lane Changes
Whenever you can, avoid making unnecessary lane changes while driving.
This will help to ensure that your focus stays on road and not on the other vehicles around you
In the event that you need to change lanes, always check your mirrors and use your turn signal so that other drivers are aware of what you’re doing.
9. Adjust Your Seat Comfortably
Making sure that you are comfortable in your seat can go a long way towards helping you stay alert and focused while driving.
Take the time to adjust your seat so that your back is supported, your feet can reach the pedals easily, and you have good visibility through all of your mirrors.
If you’ve been in an accident, it’s important to speak with qualified professionals to get the help you need.
They can guide you through the process from start to finish, including help with topics like how social media affects insurance claims.
Conclusion
Keeping your eyes on the road is essential for safe driving, but it can be difficult to do if you are distracted by other things.
By following these tips and avoiding potential distractions, you can ensure that you always stay focused while behind the wheel.
Remember, even a split second of distraction could lead to an accident or tragedy, so it’s important to stay alert and aware at all times.
