Hit the Brakes: Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to reflect on good driving habits and how to ensure the road has our full attention. IIHS reports that in 2022, 5.93 million crashes were reported, with over 44,000 of those being fatal. Many of these accidents could be attributed to distracted driving. Many of us have habits in the car that we don’t realize are harmful or believe aren’t as dangerous as they are. Now’s the time to take an introspective look at your driving habits and how to ensure you improve them to continue driving safely. 

Always, Always Buckle Your Seatbelt

Wearing a seatbelt is the difference between life and death. The NHTSA reports that you are 45% more likely to survive a crash with a seatbelt on, with those odds increasing to 60% if you are in a light truck. You should always place a shoulder belt across the middle of your chest and away from your neck, while the lap belt should be across your hips, not your stomach. Don’t put the shoulder belt behind your back or under your arms. Passengers should always be buckled in as well, as you are liable for their safety while they ride with you. Buckle up and stay safe out there. 

Car Seat Installation Saves Lives

When you have children in the car, it’s important to have the right seat, install it correctly, and maintain it until they are old enough to be in the car without it. There are many car seat recommendations based on your child’s age and size, with car seat installation instructions easy to find across the internet. The back seat is the safest place for children under the age of 13 to be while driving, and car seats help keep them even safer. 

Drunk Driving Kills

Drunk driving or driving under the influence is a dangerous crime that results in roughly 13,500 deaths every year. It is illegal in every state to drive under the influence of any substance, both legal or illegal. If you’re impaired, don’t drive. Use an alternative driving service, either through a friend, family member, a service like Uber, or public transportation. If you’re hosting an event with alcohol, ensure everyone leaving is a sober driver and stop anyone that isn’t from getting behind the wheel. 

Speed Limits Exist for a Reason

Speeding puts you and everyone around you at risk. The faster you drive, the more severe the crash. Keep an eye on your speedometer no matter where you are, especially in bad weather, dawn or dusk, night, or in construction zones. 

Drowsy Driving is Impaired Driving

If you’re feeling sleepy, you probably shouldn’t get behind the wheel. Midnight to 6 a.m. and late afternoon are considered peak sleepiness periods, so be alert for signs of drowsiness such as crossing roadway lines or rumble strips. These are warnings intended to help you refocus. If you need to, pull over somewhere, like a parking lot or the side of the road, to catch a quick nap. There’s no shame in doing so and it’s more important for you to safely arrive at your destination.

Distracted Driving Leads to Accidents

It’s easy to get distracted, even on the road. Driving becomes second nature for many of us, so things like talking, texting, taking calls, eating or drinking, or changing the song are all seen as quick adjustments to an otherwise normal driving experience. However, each of these minor tasks takes our attention away from the road, which could lead to a serious accident. It’s illegal to text and drive in Missouri too, so make sure you always have your full attention on the road ahead of you. Life can wait until you reach your destination. 

Eyes Up and Stay Aware

If you see flashing lights, slow down and move over. Emergency vehicles use the leftmost lane to reach their destination as fast as possible, so if you see lights, always move over for them. The same can be said for buses. If you see flashing yellow lights in a neighborhood, this is usually indicative of a bus stopping to pick up or drop off students. You are required by law to stop when a bus has its lights on to keep all of its passengers safe. 

Make 2025 Your Safest Year on the Road Yet

Safe driving takes minimal effort and provides maximum benefit. 2025 could be your safest year on the road yet if you follow these tips and stick to safer driving practices. If you ever end up in an accident on the road and need assistance, Eureka Fire Protection District is here to help. Our team is dedicated to keeping you safe no matter the situation. Buckle up and drive safe out there this year!