You might be surprised at how many everyday actions can lead to car accidents. And because April is Distracted Driver Awareness Month, we take a look at some of the most dangerous driving disturbances to avoid.
Texting while driving
Texting and driving is considered as dangerous as, or even more than,this no-no. Many lives have been destroyed or lost due to some of the silliest messages. In as much time as it takes to write these simple messages, any number of disasters can occur.
Eating while driving
If you purchased those fries at your local fast food restaurant, it would be smart to open your ketchup before you hit the road. Before you order, consider how much attention your food will demand of you. Here are the 10 worst foods to consume while driving.
Grooming while driving
In a rush to get ready for work? Try to set your alarm a little earlier to give yourself time to touch up on your eye shadow or shave that stubble, rather than doing it in the car.
Outside distractions
Avoid slowing down for the eye candy and accident scenes. Concentrate on the road ahead. Even if it's just for a second or two, you're still taking your eyes off the road.
Tinkering with the radio
Set those presets before you back out of the driveway. Whether it's the AM/FM dial, CD changer or MP3 player, remember that your job is to operate your car and not the device. Perhaps you should consider carpooling.
Talking on your cell while driving
Not all states have banned the use of cellphones while driving. This remains one of the largest traffic hazards today.
Pets & driving
Save yourself the cleaning bill and the potential pet-induced accident by securing that pet in a crate or behind a screen. The fact is that having loose pets in the car can distract you from driving.
Kids & driving
If you think pets are distracting, try a miniature, immature version of yourself. Any parent knows that the demands of a child can be a distraction. Place that situation in a moving vehicle and you combine one of the greatest joys of life with a potential tragedy. Perhaps you could introduce your children to a few travel games.
GPS driving distractions
Who would have thought that something so useful could be so distracting? Navigation tools, such as global positioning system (GPS) devices, are only as good as the people who use them, and are believed to be another cause for distraction.