Tips on Managing Driver Distractions

Multi-tasking while driving has become commonplace. Drivers eat, drink, read, discipline their kids, use cell phones and even shave or apply make-up on the road. Most drivers, regularly or occasionally, perform personal and work-related tasks while driving.

• Be familiar with the equipment in your car, such as the stereo system and cell phone. This is especially important if you have a new phone or car, or a rental vehicle. Practice before driving so you can perform basic functions without taking your eyes off the road
• Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. If you have a phone, use a hands-free model and keep it in its holder.
• Make sure your children are comfortable and properly buckled up. To keep children from distracting the driver, provide them with safe items they may need for the road trip.
• Pull over to eat or drink. By stopping, you will give yourself a break from the traffic to enjoy your refreshments. Children or adults may choke on food while in the vehicle, causing a severe distraction for the driver.
• Check your route before leaving. If you don't know where you're going, study a road map to avoid unnecessary stress and distractions. Do not attempt to read the road map while driving.
• Do your grooming before leaving. Don't rely on the time in your vehicle to take care of your personal routine such as applying make-up, combing your hair or shaving.
• Do not engage in emotionally charged conversations, either with the passengers or on your mobile phone. Such discussions can result in aggressive or erratic driving behavior.
• Don't take notes while driving. Always find a safe place to stop before writing things down.
• Drive defensively. Be prepared for the unsafe actions of other motorists or for poor driving conditions.

Return to top of page

2006 Conference on Distracted Driving

Pamphlet "Driven to Distraction" (PDF)