Keep Your Eyes On The Road: Driving Without Distractions
There are many in-car gadgets these days from mobile phones to satellite navigation equipment, all of which could be considered as helping us when we are on the move. However it is important that focus and concentration on the road are crucial at all time and to ensure that any accessories and gadgets we have in the car do not cause a distraction which could lead to an accident.
There are now laws in place that prohibit the use of a mobile phone in your hand whilst driving; there are ways around this obviously using a Bluetooth headset or a built-in car kit. But even so it's best not to speak for too long while driving and pull over if possible and where safe to do so, as even with an integrated hands-free kit, you may still not have 100% focus on the events taking place on the road.
Many people have been pulled over for a number of strange reasons such as eating a banana, having a shave and even using curling tongs whilst driving. Essentially you shouldn't be irresponsible enough to do any of these no matter how harmless you think they may be. If your hands are not on the steering wheel and your eyes are not watching what's going on around you then there's a greater chance you'll cause an accident due to delayed reactions.
One potential distraction in cars is satellite navigation units. Manny drivers now use these aids to guide them on unfamiliar routes and whilst it's helpful to hear a personal navigator telling you your directions these can be distracting if you have to alter your trip and are concentrating more on making sure you stick to the directions than on potential hazards on the road such as crossing pedestrians or red traffic lights. If you start reprogramming the navigation device then you're concentration will be taken away from purely driving the car safely.
There have been crashes caused as a result of this activity which has prompted some units to become self-aware and not allow you to interact with the unit unless you have come to a complete stop.
If you need to make any changes or checks with the navigation device you should pull off the motorway at the next convenient location such as a service station or rest stop. This would be an ideal time to have something to eat or drink safely too, if you have been driving a long time or are driving at night then you should also consider getting some rest before you continue your trip.
Keeping concentration while driving can not always be straightforward for some drivers that have problems dealing with potential distractions both inside and outside the cart. The important thing to remember is to focus on driving and being aware of other drivers and hazards around you who may not be as careful as you.
About the Author:
Phil Adams-Wright is an expert author covering: car finance, car credit and used car loans