8 Tips To Avoid Distracted Driving During This Summer’s Family Road Trip

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Summer is a great time to hit the open road and explore new places with family and friends. However, it is important to remember that driving during this time can also be dangerous due to distractions on the road. In this listicle, we will provide you with eight tips to avoid distracted driving during this summer’s family road trip.

Put Your Phone Away

One of the most common distractions while driving is using a phone. During long road trips, it can be tempting to check emails, social media, or text messages. However, this can take your focus away from the road and increase the risk of an accident. To avoid this, put your phone away in a designated spot that is out of reach, such as in a glove compartment or trunk.

Use Voice-Activated Features

Using a phone while driving is one of the leading causes of distracted driving accidents. Even a momentary distraction, such as glancing down to check a text message, can lead to a serious accident. To avoid this, it is important to use voice-activated features when you need to use your phone while driving.

Voice-activated systems are designed to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. With a simple voice command, you can make phone calls, send messages, and access music or navigation. Many newer vehicles come equipped with built-in voice-activated systems, making it easy for drivers to use their phones without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road.

Plan Your Route Ahead of Time

Planning your route ahead of time is an essential step in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer road trip. Before hitting the road, take some time to map out your route and plan for any potential roadblocks or traffic delays.

Using a GPS device or mapping app can be helpful in navigating your route, but it can also be distracting while driving. To avoid this, plan your route ahead of time and write down the directions, or program your GPS before you start driving. This will allow you to focus on the road ahead and avoid distractions caused by looking at a map or GPS device while driving.

Avoid Eating While Driving

Eating while driving is another common distraction that can increase the risk of an accident. Instead, plan for meal breaks during your road trip. This can also give you a chance to stretch your legs and take a break from driving.

Keep Your Vehicle Organized

Driving in a cluttered vehicle can be distracting and potentially dangerous. Loose items rolling around can catch your attention and take your focus away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident. To avoid distractions from clutter, it is important to keep your vehicle organized and free of any unnecessary items.

Start by removing any items that you do not need for your trip, such as excess luggage, toys, or sports equipment. Store them in the trunk or cargo area of your vehicle, and make sure they are securely fastened so they don’t move around while driving. Next, consider investing in organizers to keep your vehicle tidy. This can help you stay focused on the road and avoid accidents caused by distracted driving.

Avoid Multitasking

Multitasking while driving, such as adjusting the radio or reaching for an object, can be dangerous. To avoid this, focus solely on driving and avoid any other tasks while on the road. If you need to adjust something in the car, make sure to pull over to a safe location.

Take Breaks When Necessary

Driving for long periods of time can be tiring and cause driver fatigue, which can lead to distracted driving and increase the risk of accidents. To avoid this, it is important to take breaks when necessary during your summer road trip.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends taking a break every two hours or 100 miles, whichever comes first. During these breaks, you should get out of your car, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air. Taking a short walk or doing some light exercise can also help you feel more alert and focused.

Share the Driving Responsibilities

Travelling with others can make for a fun and enjoyable road trip experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. One of the most significant challenges is driver fatigue, which can lead to distracted driving and increase the risk of accidents.

To avoid driver fatigue, it is important to share the driving responsibilities with others. If you are travelling with friends or family members who are also licensed drivers, consider taking turns driving.

By using these 8 tips this summer you can ensure that everyone stays fresh and alert throughout the trip, and give everyone a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Jennifer Bell is an avid car safety enthusiast and mother of two. She writes for car accident lawyers in Philadelphia.