The holidays are by far one of the more busy times of the year, and it is not uncommon to feel distracted during your day-to-day tasks. From planning your holiday parties to picking out gifts for the kids, you have a lot on your mind. It is important, however, to stay safe on the roads and avoid distractions – as well as never drinking and driving.
Ways to Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is just as dangerous as drunken driving – and it seems more individuals are engaging in more dangerous distracting behaviors than drinking and getting behind the wheel. From texting family and friends to sending photographs or even updating social media, there are a lot of ways to become distracted. Some things you can do to stay safe and keep the distractions at bay on the road include:
- By putting your cell phone in the glove box while driving may be the best way of protecting yourself from a distracted driving mishap. It also sets an example for your passengers.
- Not engaging in conversations with your passengers but letting them know that you need to focus while driving.
- Not driving while eating or drinking food. During the holidays, you may be rushed from house to house and you may be tempted to eat while on-the-go. But eating while driving is actually a form of distracted driving and is very dangerous.
- Not using your cell phone to talk or texts while driving. Studies have already shown the dangers of reading text messages while driving. You can easily drive the length of a football field, without looking at the road, just to read one message.
- Keeping the kids entertained while you are driving. If they start to fight or you need to give one of your children attention, pull off to the side of the road and handle the situation. Never try to tend to children while driving a vehicle.
Remember Basic Winter Driving Habits
Holidays are busy, but also a good time to re-familiarize yourself with proper driving habits. Some things to keep in mind as you venture out on the roads in Kansas City this holiday season include:
- Always wearing your seatbelt – and ensuring that all passengers wear their proper seatbelts too.
- Leaving early so that you have enough time to reach your destination, and to ensure you are not tempted to speed or drive recklessly just to reach it.
- Being cautious when the weather turns poor. Whether it is rain, icy road conditions, or harsh winds, you need to drive with caution, give yourself extra distance between cars, do not make sudden movements, and always stick to the speed limit.
Were You Injured by a Distracted Driver?
Despite people knowing the rules of the road, there are still those that choose to drive distracted – especially during the holidays. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a distracted driver, contact the attorneys at Horn Law for a consultation. Schedule your appointment at (816) 795-7500, or fill out an online contact form.
