Get serious about distracted driving

Distracted driving has become an escalating and deadly problem. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration continues to record thousands of distracted driving-related deaths on our nation’s roads every year.

Since the pandemic, distracted driving behaviors have only increased. NHTSA reminds everyone that texting while driving and otherwise driving distracted – by phones, passengers, eating, drinking or even tuning the radio – are dangerous, and often illegal, habits.

While distracted driving can take many forms – using GPS, applying makeup, interacting with other passengers, sipping hot coffee – the most dangerous behavior is texting and driving. The bottom line is this: If your attention is anywhere other than on the road, you’re distracted.

If you don’t want to get a ticket for distracted driving, it’s easy. Focus on the road and not on your phone. If you need to text, stop and pull over. Do not drive.

Whether you’re an adult or teen driver, follow these safe driving tips:

If you struggle with the urge to check your phone or to text while you drive, activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature or place your phone out of reach by putting it in the trunk, glove box, or back seat to keep you from mindlessly grabbing it.
Ask a passenger to be your “designated texter.” Give them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving. Those notifications will be waiting for you when you arrive at your destination. No text or comment is worth dying for.

For more information, visit the NHTSA’s distracted driving page

This loss control information is advisory only. The author assumes no responsibility for management or control of loss control activities. Not all exposures are identified in this article. Contact your local, independent Bolder insurance advisor  for coverage advice and policy service.

This article provided by Cincinnati Insurance Company, a Bolder Insurance partner.