distracted driving

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TPG Distracted Driving

According to the National Safety Council, 96 percent of people believe that texting or emailing  on a cell phone is a threat to driving safely, and 87 percent believe that talking on the phone is a threat. Yet, 60 percent of the people still talk on the phone and 44 percent still respond to texts while driving. Did you know that talking on a cell phone while driving is more dangerous than talking to your passengers or listening to music? 

As April (and Distracted Driving Awareness Month) comes to a close, The Prewitt Group wants to remind you that it doesn’t mean you can now go back to being distracted while driving. Our partners at Frankenmuth Insurance offer eight tips on how to avoid driving distracted so that you will arrive safely at your destination:

  1. Familiarize yourself with your car’s features: Learn everything you need to know about how your car operates so that you can access features without taking your eyes off the road.
  2. Know where you’re going: Before you place your car in drive make sure you have set your navigation system and it is voice activated.
  3. Pick a perfect playlist: Instead of fooling with tuning the radio while you are driving, why not set up the perfect playlist so that you are not distracted trying to find the right music for your journey?
  4. Place your cell phone in the center of your console: Drivers are six times more likely to get into an accident while talking on their cell phones. Place the phone where you are not tempted to dial while driving.
  5. Silence your notifications: When a phone is constantly notifying you, you will become distracted. Messages can wait until you arrive at your destination safely.
  6. Sip through a straw: Eating and drinking while driving can be very hazardous. Sometimes drinking during a road trip is necessary, but if you drink from a bottle, you have to tip your head back, which takes your eyes off of the road. Drinking through a straw will alleviate the head tip.
  7. Download an app to reduce distracted driving: Consider downloading an app that blocks calls, emails, texting and your camera while you are behind the wheel. Once you arrive safely at your destination, you can turn off the app until you’re on the road again.
  8. Sign a pledge to keep roadways safe: You can pledge to become a more attentive driver by signing the National Safety Council’s pledge to help make the roads safer for you and other drivers.

The Prewitt Group wants to help you protect yourself and the ones you love through safe driving habits. Having a good auto insurance policy is an important measure to keep you on track. Review your plan with one of our risk consultants by booking an appointment at this link.

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iStock 1021542964

From texting and scrolling through social media to driving while fatigued or under the influence, there are countless distractions that take our minds and eyes away from the road.  Each day in the United States, approximately nine people are killed and more than 1,000 injured in crashes that are reported to involve a distracted driver.

April is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, which gives us the opportunity to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving. All of the “it was just a glance” or “it was just one drink” or “I needed to reply” excuses for taking your attention from the road are not worth the risks and consequences of a car accident.

Here are 7 ways to cut distractions from your commute and just drive:

  1. Turn off your phone, put it out of reach, or use the “do not disturb” setting: Taking these measures will help you avoid interruptions from any notifications and the temptation to check your phone. You can also block out driving time on your calendar or set automatic responses to let people know you’ll be driving.
  2. Program your route before you leave: Need directions? Enter the address into your GPS before hitting the road. Be sure to turn the volume on and position the device where you can easily see it without taking your eyes off the road.
  3. Stop using your hands-free device: While using a hands-free device keeps your hands on the wheel, studies show that talking on the phone reduces your field of vision and your ability to process moving imagery. If you need to take or make a call, find a safe place to pull over.
  4. Pullover to eat: Eating and driving can be just as dangerous as texting and driving. Make a pit stop at a rest area or restaurant if you need a bite to eat.
  5. Turn down your music: Keep the stereo volume low enough to be aware of your surroundings. Loud music can cause you to lose focus on the road or miss other potential warning signs of an accident.
  6. Don’t drive fatigued: Driving while fatigued raises your chance of a crash by increasing reaction time and impairing your ability to make quick decisions. Be sure you are well-rested before hitting the road.
  7. Get ready at home: Doing your hair or makeup while driving might save you a few minutes in the morning, but it could cost you your life. Finish getting ready at home or at your workplace.

Join The Prewitt Group as we raise awareness of these distracted driving dangers, make adjustments to your driving routine, and pledge to drive free from distractions today.