Trader Magazine 11th issue: Safety First - Don’t be a Distracted Driver

So you're in the car and the mobile phone rings and you start looking for it… it's in your pocket, you stretch your leg to get the phone from its trapped space and suddenly your car accelerates and you bang into the car in front of you...

Driving is a task that requires your full attention every time you get behind the wheel. As a driver, you must always remember to reduce driver distractions and focus on the task of driving. Your first responsibility is road safety! A distraction is anything that takes your attention away from driving, such as:

Mobile phones, laptops and hand-held organizers; Mobile phone use is one of the leading factors causing distracted driving accidents. If you must answer the phone, use a hands-free device.

Billboards and outdoor Advertising TV's; Although we hardly notice the billboards these days but an attractive attention grabbing billboard or T.V Ad can divert your attention from driving. Keep your eyes on the road.

Eating or drinking; Eating while driving is not only messy, but also dangerous. It usually involves driving with one hand and juggling your food or beverage with the other. Don't eat while driving unless you are on a crash diet.

Conversing with passengers; Passengers sometimes don't realize where the conversation will end up and you can get into an emotional conversation as a result. Just stay focused and ask them to talk about it later when you're not on the road.

Tending to children or pets; Children can be distracting, be sure to buckle them up safely and give them books, games and other items that will keep them occupied. Pets are unpredictable as well so make sure you properly secure them before you start driving.

Adjusting in-vehicle controls; Searching for your favourite tune on the radio, or adjusting the vehicle climate control can be dangerous. Taking your eyes away for two seconds at 80km/h means you have traveled approximately 25 metres blindly.

Looks can kill; The urge to get a good look at an accident, construction work, a billboard advertisement, the scenic view or an attractive person can be dangerous to you and others on the road. Although this is just human nature, the best advice: Don't look! Those things are never more important than focusing on your driving. Diverting your concentration from driving can be deadly.

REMEMBER: A vehicle is like a loaded gun; it can be a deadly weapon.
- Driving safely is always more important than using or answering your mobile phone.
- While eating, pull over to a safe location and enjoy your meal.
- Stay focused on the road and not the conversation with the passenger.
- Avoid arguments and other disturbing conversations while driving.

Be Safe: Reduce Distractions & Focus on Driving