Throughout July in honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month at Republic Services, we’re doubling down on raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Thank you to Fenster, Director of Safety, for providing the following six safety tips for avoiding distractions behind the wheel.
Tip #1: Put your phone away. Remember, no phone call or text is worth your life. If you have to, pull over to respond to phone calls and texts.
Tip #2: Be mentally prepared. Don’t drive if you’re upset, excited, or having strong feelings or physical symptoms that could interfere with your concentration. Getting behind the wheel with heightened emotions can cause you to be distracted from the task at hand.
Tip #3: Vow not to multi-task. Focus solely on driving and avoid engaging in activities that take your attention away from the road. This includes eating, drinking, reading, grooming, and any other activity that takes your mind and eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel.
Tip #4 Adjust your vehicle before starting to drive. Adjust your seats, mirrors, seat belt, radio station/volume, GPS destination, climate control, etc. before you leave your driveway or parking spot.
Tip #5: Avoid reaching. Ensure that all loose objects within the vehicle are properly secured and Resist the urge to reach for items if they fall while driving.
Tip #6: Don’t be a distraction. Avoid calling or texting family members and friends when you know they are driving to avoid distracting them.
Each day in the U.S. more than 1,000 people are injured in crashes that involve a distracted driver. The good news is that many accidents can be prevented simply by keeping your eyes, hands and mind focused on driving. We must be attentive every time we get behind the wheel. It is our collective responsibility to be safe and ensure that all employees return home each night. Please remember these tips and safe travels.
