Tips for avoiding distracted driving

It can be hard to ignore a ringing phone or the ding of a text message. Unfortunately, too many people in Kentucky and across the U.S. try to handle multiple tasks at once, including cellphone use while driving, causing catastrophic car accidents.

How big is the distracted driving problem?

According to Kentucky State Police, the Bluegrass State saw 6,455 motor vehicle accidents in 2019 caused by distracted driving. This led to 14 deaths and over 1,719 injuries. Across the entire U.S., almost 3,000 individuals lost their lives in distracted driving collisions annually. As this shows, distractions such as cellphone use should be avoided while driving. Even hands-free cellphone use is not entirely safe, as a person is still distracted cognitively.

What can I do to avoid distracted driving?

It is important to make sure you are avoiding all distractions while driving. First, prepare for your trip ahead of time. Give yourself enough time to get ready for the day, set the GPS, adjust your seat and mirrors and set the radio and climate control before driving.

Second, do not drive “intexicated.” Just like drunk driving, texting and driving leads to car accidents. Put down your cellphone when driving. Put it in your purse or bag in the back seat where it is out of reach and activate call/text blocking features. Make sure there is nothing that will keep you from paying attention to the road, visually, manually and cognitively.

Always be safe while driving

Distracted drivers cause car crashes every day. No phone call or text message is worth a human life. Avoiding distracted driving at all times can save lives. If you were injured in a distracted driving crash in Kentucky, you may be able to pursue compensation for the damages you suffered.