Whether it’s the effect of looking down to send a text, typing an address into a GPS system or snacking on some fries, distracted driving is responsible for countless auto accidents and injuries each year. Avoid being a dangerous distracted driver by following these distracted driving tips in Tampa, FL.
Prep your entertainment in advance
Changing a song on your phone or adjusting the radio dial might only take a second, but that’s far too long to be looking away from the road. A car could pull out in front of you, or a deer or pedestrian could wander out into the street in that split second. Right after you buckle your seatbelt and adjust your mirrors, pick a playlist or find your favorite radio station to enjoy on your commute.
Use your GPS prior to departure
Similar to the point above, you don’t want to be fiddling with your GPS device or app while you’re driving. The time it takes to adjust your route or figure out where you’re going could be the difference in arriving safely or getting in an accident. One of our top distracted driving tips in Tampa, FL is to enter your destination address before you take off.
Download helpful apps
Cellphones are one of the leading causes of distracted driving in Tampa, FL. Thankfully, there are applications to help reduce distracted drivers and lower the number of accidents. Apps like Drivemode automatically silence your cellphone once you’ve reached a certain speed, and can even send auto replies to texts letting your friends know that you’re driving. Best of all, these apps are free to download and use!
Limit the number of passengers
The more people you have in the car, the easier it is to get distracted. If possible, try not to drive around with a car full of people, especially if they’re young kids or passengers who are going to be rowdy.
Avoid multitasking
In theory, multitasking doesn’t seem all that hard. Humans have advanced brains, so doing a few different things at once shouldn’t be all that difficult, right? Wrong! Studies show that we’re not able to devote our full attention to one task when we’re multitasking. This is clearly a problem when you’re behind the wheel. Put everything else off to the side and pay attention to the road when you’re driving to avoid being distracted.
Pull over if you’re drowsy
Most people have probably driven when they’re a little bit tired, whether it’s from a long day of work or an early-morning commute. If you’re feeling extremely tired, though, your brain doesn’t function as well, and you’re more likely to get in an accident. If you ever feel yourself nodding off or having trouble concentrating due to fatigue, pull off to the side of the road to rest.
Whether you’re the safest driver on the road or you’re prone to distracted driving in Tampa, FL, we offer affordable car insurance for everyone in the area. Give Affordable Car Insurance Tampa a call today to learn more about our incredible coverage and low rates.
