Being A Good Driver Also Means Thinking Quickly: Read More About It Here
Road accidents have been on an increase over the last few years. One of the main reasons is there are various ways in which drivers are distracted from driving. Driving safely needs total concentration on all sides of the road.
You need to have a perfect judgment of the space your car takes up, the probable speed with which the other vehicles are moving, and the speed of your car as well. Good driving includes quick, on-the-spot decisions which help you navigate your vehicle safely. In this article, we have compiled a few points for safe driving.
Do Not Use Phone While Driving
Even a minor distraction can cause you to lose your concentration while driving. One of the commonest distractions while driving is the phone. With the advent of Bluetooth, people have started using their phones while driving.
They feel that since they do not need to hold the phone in their hand, it is safe to talk on the phone while driving. They forget that drivers cannot afford to lose their concentration even for a second. The conversation might be disturbing or it might be an argument you’re involved in, and this will obviously divert your attention from the road.
Keep Conversation to the Minimum
Many drivers indulge in conversation with their partners to overcome boredom. This can be a major distraction while driving. Even if you lose out on a single moment when you need to make a split-second decision just because you’re busy talking to your partner, the consequences could be fatal.
Secure Pets, People, and Items in the Car
Whoever is sitting in your car, whether it is your family members or pets, needs to be secure in one place. Wearing a seat belt is essential for the safety of the people as well as maintaining the concentration level of the driver. If you have anyone sliding or shifting in the car, it is going to cause a distraction thereby preventing you from making split-second decisions. Even if you have purchased any groceries or other items, make sure that they are secure and not sliding around in the car. This too could be a distraction while driving.
No Multitasking
Due to the fast-paced world, people have adopted multitasking as a way of life. Unfortunately, this multitasking is also used while driving. Drivers must remember that driving safely involves making a decision in a split-second and a hundred percent concentration. Multitasking includes talking or texting on the phone, grooming yourself on the way to work if you’re late, or having your breakfast on the way.
Use Fans or Air Conditioners to Prevent Drowsiness
Many times, drivers traveling long distances can suffer from a lack of sleep especially if they are driving in warm temperatures. Switching on the fan or the air-conditioner not only keeps the surroundings cool but also helps keep one wide awake. The alertness of the mind is very essential to taking quick decisions while driving.
Keep the Volume of Music Low
While it’s fine to play music while driving, keep in mind that there are limits. Driving needs your entire attention and if you want to play music to keep yourself awake, play it at a low volume so that it does not become a distraction. When you play music very loudly, you cannot listen to the vehicles coming up or anything else that you need to pay attention to on the road.
Clear and Clean Windows and Windshield
A clear vision is a must when you are driving. Any blemishes or cracks on the windows or windshield can hinder the driver’s vision. This can cause accidents as you are unable to make any decisions due to the blocked vision.
Map The Route of your Destination
Looking for directions while you are driving is a major distraction to drivers. It is always advisable to set the directions of your destination on a map and drive accordingly. Without a map, you will not know where exactly you have to take a turn and you might have to change lanes at the last minute which is very difficult.
Do Not Combine Driving and Socializing
Driving is a task that must be done without any distractions. It cannot be combined with any other task, especially socializing. With the advent of smartphones, people give the impression that they are available throughout the day at any hour. Remember, driving is not the time you socialize. Set a different time for your socializing activities. Let driving be a single task.
You must have your wits around you and be able to think quickly on your feet to be a good driver. This can be done by getting rid of any distractions that you face while driving. This article will help you get rid of any distractions and increase your concentration level while driving. So go ahead, happy and safe driving!