Road Safety : Distracted Driving

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Chapter : Road Safety

Distracted Driving

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Distracted driving means that someone is doing something that takes their attention away from the road while they’re driving. This could include: 

• Talking on their phone or even keeping it within easy reach
• Adjusting the radio or programming a GPS
• Eating, drinking, combing their hair, shaving, putting on makeup, or getting dressed 
• Looking or reaching for something on the passenger seat, back seat, or floor 
• Thinking more about the events of the day than their driving 
• Paying more attention to their passengers than to the road ahead of them. 

Distractions are a serious danger, not only to the driver but also to passengers and other motorists. As per report of road safety department on daily basis  most of accidents are happening due to  a distracted driving collision were many person are get injured in every minute. It is the cause of more fatal collisions than speeding or impaired driving. 

In many countries several types of penalties are getting imposed on the driver/rider several awareness programs are getting conducted but yet distracted driving incidents are reporting increased day by day. Below some effective and control measures are mentioned.

COMMON DRIVER MISTAKE

1. Failing to pay attention-Zone out
• Stay relaxed but totally focused.
• Concentrate on the journey not your pending issues.
2. Driving while drowsy
• Take breaks frequently or as required.
• Make sure to get adequate rest before long trips.
3. Becoming distracted inside the car (cell phone, radio, passengers)
• Avoid using cell phone while driving
• Plan the trip and study your trip prior to commencing.
4. Failing to adjust to adverse weather conditions
• Slow down in rain.
• Allow longer stopping distances.
• Adjust for poor visibility.
5. Driving aggressively (tail gating, running red lights and stop signs)
• Allow yourself ample time to make the trip.
• Remain calm and drive with a safety cushion.
6. Making assumptions about other drivers intentions
• Drive defensively.
• Allow cushion for the unexpected.
• Make your intensions clear. Use turn signals etc.
7. Speeding
• Obey the traffic signals.
• Remember the speed limit is the legal limit in ideal conditions.
8. Changing lanes without checking blinds
• Signal, check mirrors then use quick glance.
• Make lane changes gradually.
9. Driving while upset
• Avoid driving in stress
• Avoid driving during poor health condition
10. Ignoring essential auto maintenance (brake lights, bald tires etc.)
• Do weekly maintenance checks.
• Replace brake pads if required. Replace tires when worn out.

Identify Controls 

BEFORE DRIVING 

1. Do a pre-trip inspection—Check your vehicle before you get in. That will help you spot a problem before it’s too late. 
2. Map it out—Before traveling, Plan or map out your route first. If have doubt put your travel information into your GPS to get exact driving route while you’re still parked. 
3. Be comfortable—Before putting the car in gear, make sure you’re comfortable by adjusting the seat, the heat/air conditioning, the mirrors, and the steering wheel.
   
4. Eat, drink, and do your grooming at home—Give yourself the time to do those things before you get into your vehicle. Your only job should be to drive safely 
5.  Keep it clean—Things like pop cans, wrappers, coffee cups, or sports equipment can all distract you by moving or rolling around on the floor. By cleaning your car, you can limit this distraction. 
6. Set up your phone—Some apps or settings can block incoming calls and texts while driving, or send automatic replies to people trying to call or text you. Before you get in your vehicle, record an outgoing message that tells callers you’re driving and you’ll get back to them. Or pair your car audio system with your phone using Bluetooth. 
7. Turn off your phone or switch it to silent mode—You can even put it in the glove compartment (lock it, if you have to) or in a bag on the back seat so you’re not tempted

 WHILE DRIVING 

1. Use a hands-free or mounted device—It’s against the law to hold an electronic device in your hand while you’re driving. Although hands-free and mounted devices are permitted, they’re still a distraction. It’s safer not to make or answer any phone calls when behind the wheel. 
2. Stay relaxed and alert—If you’re worried or tired, you can’t react as quickly. 
3. Use your phone only when it is safe to do so—If you have to make a call or send a text or email, pull off the road carefully and come to a complete stop in a safe place or ask your passenger to take a call or send a text for you.
4. Don’t answer e-mails or text messages—Each time you read a text or an email, you’re taking your eyes off of the road for at least four seconds. Studies have shown that drivers who take their eyes off the road for more than two seconds are twice as likely to have a crash.

Suggestion

Train your workers how to set up their phones to send automatic replies or block calls and texts while driving.  

Review your company’s distracted driving health and safety policy with your management. Remind them that their attention must be on the task of driving.

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