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Distracted Driving

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Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a serious concern that kills 9 people every day and injures more than 1,000. It has become one of the country's major concerns, especially now that more drivers are distracted by their phones. But, distracted driving is not only caused by texting while driving. Distracted driving is when the driver is not fully paying attention to the road.

They could be messing around with the radio, eating or drinking, grooming themselves, or playing with their pet/kids. Any time your mind is not focused on the road, you are distracted. We all do and think it is no big deal, our eyes were off the just for a few seconds. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, you take your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds to send a text. During that time, you can drive the length of a football field going 55 miles per hour. A lot can happen during that short time.

Helpful and Life-Saving Tips

This can all be avoided. AAA has a few tips to help us manage distractions before we hit the road.

  • Make adjustments before you get underway. Address vehicle systems like your GPS, seats, mirrors, climate controls, and sound systems before hitting the road. Decide on your route and check traffic conditions ahead of time. You should also preset your route before heading out and not during.
  • Secure children and pets before getting underway. If they need your attention, pull off the road safely to care for them. Reaching into the backseat can cause you to lose control of the vehicle. Not many people think about restraining their pets from keeping them from roaming the car or climbing all over you. These restraints can aid in limiting distractions.
  • Put aside your electronic distractions. Don’t use cell phones while driving – handheld or hands-free – except in absolute emergencies. Never use text messaging, email functions, video games, or the internet with a wireless device, including those built into the vehicle, while driving. Just don’t!
  • If another activity demands your attention, instead of trying to attempt it while driving, pull off the road, and stop your vehicle in a safe place. To avoid temptation, power down, or stow devices before heading out.

To see the full list, visit AAA website to read more helpful driving tips. A lot of these tips may be obvious, but some you may not have thought of. If you happen to be the passenger and you see the driver become distracted, say something or help them out.

Safe and Reliable Vehicles for Sale in Abilene

The staff at Williams Group Auto wants everyone to be safe on the road and recommends you follow these helpful tips. Another way to be safe on the road is to be sure you are driving a reliable vehicle.

If you think it is time to purchase a pre-owned vehicle, stop by Williams Group Auto to check out our large selection of certified pre-owned cars and trucks. You can contact us at 325-793-2500 or visit us at www.williamsgroupauto.com to view our virtual showroom.

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