Are you sure you’re a safe driver?

Posted in Firm News on June 25, 2019

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Many people find getting behind the wheel scary at first. But after you drive for some time, your confidence often increases – in some cases, perhaps too much so.

Although nearly everyone believes they are an excellent driver, there are far too many accidents on I-5 each year for that to be necessarily true. However, while you do not have control of other drivers around you, there are ways you can increase your chances of remaining safe on the road.

Three things that can wait until you stop

In the interest of time, it is typical to try to balance multiple priorities all at once. But once you take control of a motor vehicle, driving should be your only concern and the only thing that demands your focus.

You already know it is dangerous (and illegal) to consume alcohol or use your mobile device while driving. But other activities can be equally detrimental to yourself and those around you.

Rather than overestimating your abilities, and putting lives at risk in the process, there are some things you should never do when you are in the driver’s seat. These include:

  • Complete your personal cares. Whether you need to shave, apply makeup or style your hair, these actions take your attention off the road. And no matter how good you might look, it is more important to arrive at your final destination safely.
  • Participate in a heated conversation. Spending time together on the road can allow you and your significant other an opportunity to discuss personal matters. However, getting into an argument can increase your anxiety, and crying will inevitably affect your ability to see the road clearly.
  • Pick something up. Your baby might drop their teething ring and scream incessantly, or your work bag might fall off the seat and spill onto the floor while you are stuck in traffic on your way to a meeting. But a temporary inconvenience is not worth risking a potential accident.

There is an appropriate time and place to take care of these things, but it is always best to attend to concerns other than driving safely. You might arrive a few minutes late or not look as polished as you would like, but by focusing on your driving, you increase your chances of safely getting to where you want to go.