Distracted driving is a major problem in the United States. Cars are designed with so many bells and whistles that can distract you for a split second while on the road. Or, passengers and family in the car. Taking the proper precautions to set your mind and environment right will help prevent you or others from a distracted driving automobile accident. In fact, Michigan passed Kelsey’s Law to assess a civil infraction for distracted driving.
With that, this article aims to provide information on how you can prevent distracted driving and personal injury cases we see in Southfield as a result.
Get Ready to Focus
Before you drive, you need your focus. You should be well-rested and free of any intoxicants like alcohol, narcotics, or prescriptions. The road and your safety require attention and observation, which must be at a hundred percent.
Be Familiar with the vehicle
Before operating the car, you should be familiar with the vehicle. You should familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s equipment. This would include the following:
- Preset radio or satellite stations that you like to listen to;
- Bluetooth connectivity with devices like a smartphone
- Set up Spotify or your music provider;
- Set up the GPS devices and plug-in directions before you start the drive; and
- Set the climate control.
Secure Yourself And Your Items
Before you get started on driving, you should do the following:
- Secure yourself with the lap and shoulder belt;
- Secure your personal belongings;
- Place items that may move around in a basket or netting; and
- Never reach down or behind the seat to pick up your items;
Do Not Allow Yourself To Be Distracted
There are a couple of things that you should prevent while you are operating the vehicle. The following are the things that you should do to not be distracted:
- Place your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode. The Do Not Disturb mode of your cell phone would be good for you to prevent getting messages and calls while driving. If you must check your cell phone, pull over and check your mobile phone before going on the road again.
- Avoid doing anything else while driving. If you get hungry, need a smoke, need to drink, or need to respond to someone, you should pull over and check the things that you need to do before driving again.
- If your children are being rowdy, pull over and deal with them. Tell your passengers that distractions can cause you some problems and may even affect your safety.
- Take regular stops. The best way for you to deal with the distractions is to take regular stops along the way.
Pullover and Avoid Distraction
The best way to deal with the distractions is for you to pull over. If you are traveling far, plan your stops ahead, so you can safely stop at a gasoline station or at a highway stop. Be mindful of your surroundings and choose well-lit areas. To learn more about the anti-distracted driving laws in Michigan, you can contact our Southfield car accident attorneys.
Disclaimer:
The article that you have read is based on general applications of the law. It is not legal advice and it is not to be construed as any legal consultation with the firm. No client-attorney relationship is created when you read the articles we have provided.
Let us help you out.
If you are a victim of a car accident, call us immediately. We represent hundreds of clients from accidents caused by distracted drivers. Call us today for a free consultation.
The post Arrive Alive- How to Prevent Distracted Driving appeared first on Haque Legal.