Safety Moment Distracted Driving

Distracted Driving Risks Driver distraction is a factor in about 4 million motor vehicle crashes in North America every year (CAA). 84% of distracted-driving-related fatalities in the US were tied to the general classification of carelessness or inattentiveness (CAA). Cell phones are one of the most common distractions for drivers. It gets even more alarming – when texting and driving you are as impaired for the moment you are on a cellphone or texting device as someone who is just over the legal level for impairment from alcohol (NL Injury Prevention Coalition). CLICK THE LINK FOR MORE DISTRACTED DRIVING STATS

Common Distractions Although NL is a leader in hands-free legislation (first province in Canada to introduce laws), distracted driving is still a serious reality in our hyper-connected world. Examples: Texting, phone calls, email, social media, grooming, radio/CD/iPod, GPS, eating/drinking, adjusting climate control. Texting may be the most dangerous distraction because it involves simultaneous manual, visual and cognitive diversion. Drivers engaged in text messaging are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash or near crash event compared with non-distracted drivers (CAA). CLICK LINK AND WALK THROUGH SIMULATOR

Tips to Avoid Distractions Take a message. Let your phone pick up your calls and text messages. It’s easy and much safer to listen to voicemail or respond to texts later. Remember – It Can Wait. Ask your passengers. If there is someone else in the vehicle, let them make and receive calls and texts for you. Plan to avoid distraction. Turn your cellular device on silent or place in your coat pocket or the glove box, so you won’t be tempted to talk, email or text when you’re driving. Stay calm. Don’t participate in emotionally charged conversations while on the road. CLICKING LINK BRINGS YOU TO THE IT CAN WAIT CAMPAIGN TO END TEXTING AND DRIVING

Tips to Avoid Distractions Check the facts: Familiarize yourself with common misconceptions (i.e. “Can I text at a stoplight?” “Is it safe to use speakerphone?”) so you know what’s safe and legal. Make calls before you drive. Place any pressing phone calls before leaving the parking lot, office or home. Otherwise, wait until you arrive at your destination. Pull over to place or receive a call. If you must place or receive a call while in your car, find a safe location and pull over to the side of the road. Make sure you’re safely off to the side so you’re not posing a danger to other vehicles.

Tips to Avoid Distractions Finish your grooming before heading out on the road. Don’t rely on your commute to floss, apply makeup or fix your hair. Plan your route before leaving. If you get lost, pull over to a safe/legal parking spot to program your GPS or check a map. This will help you avoid stress and distractions. Make sure your children are comfortable and correctly secured in child restraint devices. If your child is crying or distraught, park safely before focusing on their needs. Kids are safest when you’re concentrated on the road

CAA Distracted Driving Simulator When you take your eyes off the road or are distracted from the primary task of driving, how much are you missing? Use this interactive driving scenario simulator to find out. CLICK TO LAUNCH SIMULATOR WEBSITE

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