Distracted driving isn’t just a bad habit; it’s a decision that can have devastating consequences for you, your passengers and others on the road. April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness Month: A call to action for everyone to make focused driving a priority. For professional truck drivers, staying mindful of distractions is an important part of everyday life on the road.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving covers any activity that pulls your focus from driving. Texting. Grabbing a bite to eat. Adjusting the radio. Or even interacting with your GPS or dispatch device. These simple, seemingly harmless actions can change lives in an instant.
How to minimize distractions
Staying focused is both a responsibility and a skill. Here are straightforward strategies truck drivers and all motorists can adopt to limit distractions, courtesy of the national Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- Limit external distractions
Your focus should always remain on the road ahead. That means ignoring roadside attractions, flashy billboards and anything else that competes for your attention. Staying alert can allow quicker reactions to unexpected situations. - Manage your cab
Set up everything you need before you hit the road. This includes entering GPS routes, adjusting mirrors and organizing your climate controls. Managing these tasks before driving minimizes the temptation to fiddle with buttons and dials while in motion. - Secure your belongings
A fallen drink bottle or sliding gear bag can be just as distracting as a text. Take a moment to secure loose items in your cab so they won’t move unexpectedly and pull your focus away when it matters most. - Get enough sleep
Fatigue can make distractions harder to avoid. If you feel sleepy, don’t push through. Find a safe place to rest and recharge before continuing. A well-rested driver is a safer, more attentive driver.
Work together for safer roads
Distracted driving is a problem that impacts everyone – not just those behind the wheel.
But the solutions are within your control. By staying mindful and taking steps to eliminate distractions, you contribute to a safer driving environment for all.
For more information on distracted driving and safety tips, visit the NHTSA’s Distracted Driving page
