The holiday season means more time on the road visiting family and friends, but it also comes with more distractions. Staying focused while driving is crucial to keep yourself and others safe. It’s important to know some practical tips to help you stay distraction-free behind the wheel during this busy season.
Put your phone away
Phones are one of the biggest distractions for drivers. Texts, calls, and notifications can pull your attention away from the road in an instant. The best way to avoid this is to put your phone out of reach—like in the glove compartment or a bag in the backseat. Consider turning on a “do not disturb” feature while driving, so you’re not tempted by the sound of incoming messages.
Plan your route before driving
During the holidays, you might be driving to new or unfamiliar places. Take a few minutes before you leave to plan your route and set your GPS. This way, you won’t need to mess with your phone or navigation system while driving, which can cause an accident. If you need to adjust directions, pull over to a safe spot rather than trying to make changes on the go.
Keep passengers in check
Driving with passengers can make the trip more enjoyable, but it can also be distracting. Make sure everyone knows that your focus needs to be on the road. If there are children in the car, have activities ready to keep them occupied, and let older passengers handle any needs that arise. The less you have to turn around or divide your attention, the better.
Avoid multitasking
Many people try to multitask while driving, whether it’s eating breakfast on the way to an event or adjusting their playlist. Avoid doing anything that takes your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road. Take care of those tasks before you start driving so you can give your full attention to what’s happening on the road.
Staying focused while driving is especially important during the busy holiday season. By knowing what to do while on the road, you’re helping to ensure a safer journey for yourself and others.
