How To Be A Good Passenger
It is important to avoid distractions while driving. One common distraction that people often overlook is their passengers. As a passenger, you are responsible for helping keep yourself, the driver, and other passengers safe while in the vehicle.
Rule #1 for passengers is to always listen to the driver. The driver is the captain while in the car. The driver is responsible for anything that happens or goes on inside the vehicle. As a passenger, you may be doing something that seems to be mundane, but is in fact obnoxious and distracting to the driver which can lead to catastrophic events.
Rule #2 for passengers is to always wear seatbelts and safety devices. In the potential instance of a crash, wearing your seatbelt is the safest place to be. Also, if you were to be pulled over by the police the driver would receive a ticket for something you refuse to do.
Rule #3 for passengers is to not obstruct the driver's view of the road. It is crucial that the driver can see their entire surroundings when they need to. Leaning forward or covering the rearview mirror can be dangerous for the driver and other motorists on the road.
Rule #4 for passengers is to assist the driver with anything they need. Whether that is helping with directions, responding to text messages, or keeping them company on long trips.
Rule #5 for passengers is to stay calm. Unnecessary outbursts and not being calm are dangerous to drivers. It is important that one stays calm behind the wheel so it is important not to yell or berate the driver while they are in control of the motor vehicle. Unruly passengers or aggressive backseat driving can cause the driver to freak out and cause a wreck so stay calm.
Knowing how to drive correctly is principal to staying safe and getting to where you are headed on the road, but it is also important for passengers to aid rather than detract from the driver's skills.