While driving you can only control the action you take. Being aware of the actions of other drivers is important. With 1.6 million crashes yearly related to cell phone use, it is crucial to be able to spot distracted drivers and avoid them. In this week’s blog, we will look at 5 signs indicating a distracted driver.
Cell Phone Glow: It is highly advised not to be on your phone while driving, and it is often illegal. If you see the glow of a cell phone when you glance over to another vehicle, it should be assumed that they are distracted and give them a little space in all directions.
Bending Over: A dangerous distraction for others and the driver is reaching and bending over to grab an item. This puts the driver in awkward positions that prevent safety devices from working properly. It also takes the eyes and other senses off the road. It also removes one hand from the proper driving location on the wheel.
Eating: Sometimes we can not finish our meal before entering the car, but this is highly dangerous. Especially fast food, served out of drive-throughs, is often messy and greasy leaving behind slick and wet spots on the wheel. It also takes a hand off the wheel, could restrict sight lines, and most definitely distracts the driver. Constant chewing or quick bending movements can be a sign of an operator eating while driving.
Personal Interactions: It is great to have other people in the car with you, but they can also be distracting. One of our first blogs ever was about how to be a good passenger. All individuals should know how to be good passengers. The job of the passenger is to help the driver get from point A to B safely without causign extra stress or distractions. Constant talking or looking back and forth while a large number of individuals are in a vehicle is a telltale sign of this behavior.
Swerving: If drivers are truely focused on the road, it is assumed that they would be heading in a relatively straight line with constant turns and consistant speeds. If you ever notice a driver, slowing down or speeding up at sporadic occurrences or swerving left and right, it is a good bet they are distracted or under the influence of a substance. Give these drivers distance, be prepared to stop, and avoid them as best you can.
Distracted driving is very dangerous. It is crucial that all drivers remain focused on the road and practice good driving practices. However, you can only control your own actions on the road and in life. If you see dangerous activity, separate yourself the best you can and prepare to take evasive action. If the action appears extremely dangerous, safely report the vehicle to the proper authorities.