Distracted driving is an issue that has been impacting innocent drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists all across the country. The issues associated with distracted driving do not only stem from the use of cell phones or electronics, and drivers are often oblivious of how potentially dangerous distracting activities can be.

As educational groups push for more distracted driving awareness and April is the month we observe as the Distracted Driving Awareness month, we would like to offer our readers some important tips on how to avoid distractions while behind the wheel.

Stay Disconnected

Once you sit behind the wheel, have all of your electronic pieces turned off. Placing your cell or smartphone in an accessible place is OK, but allowing it to warn you whenever someone calls, emails, or text messages you could be too much of a distraction. Making sure the phone is either off or on silent mode could help.

If the moment comes for you to call or answer to a call while behind the wheel, find a safe spot where you can pull over into before reach out for your phone. Making sure that the phone is not distracting you while you driving, however, is the most important thing you can do to avoid accidents.

Remember: Drowsy Driving Is Distracted Driving

Distracted driving activities also involve drowsy driving. If you’re too tired to focus on the road ahead you should not be operating a car, no matter how urgently you need to get to your destination. Motorists are urged to prepare for long drives or even for your regular morning commute. Having a good sleep routine can help you to avoid accidents simply by making sure you’re refueled and ready to stay alert while driving.

Attention To Detail Is Crucial

Experts say that, if your goal is to avoid accidents, focusing on the road should be a priority. Newer cars are fitted with a greater number of technologies. As high-tech becomes part of your routine, you should not forget that you’re still in charge. Drivers are often involved in accidents over distractions that have nothing to do with technology. According to a French study, drivers who were “mind wandering” were more susceptible to being involved in crashes.

In nearly 50 percent of the accidents observed under the study, drivers who were too distracted by thinking about things that were not driving-related were at fault. Driving with your mind and total attention focused on the road is the best way to avoid accidents.

Also, making sure all items in your vehicle are secured could also help you to avoid accidents. Too often, items that are making noise in the back or front passenger seats take the driver’s attention away from the road.

Securing the items could help you to avoid crashes. If you’re still curious to know more about these tips on how to avoid distracted driving accidents, follow this link.