Heads Up: April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

How much time do you spend behind the wheel? Research shows that Americans spend an average of 18 hours driving each year. Whether you drive for recreational or commercial purposes, though, you should keep your attention focused on the road. Distracted driving is a serious problem that can increase the risk of collision. To raise awareness for this problem, many safety organizations have designated April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

What Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month?

Distracted Driving Awareness Month is exactly what it sounds like: it's a month-long program in which safety organizations, as well as businesses, seek to raise awareness for distracted driving. It's recognized by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), the National Safety Council (NSC), the Department of Transportation (DOT) and other organizations. During April, organizations and businesses alike sound the alarm on distracted driving.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

According to the NHTSA, distracted driving played a role in over 3,100 fatal crashes in 2019. That's a 10% increase from the year prior. Driving requires your full attention. Distracted driving, of course, is defined by a loss of attention on the road. Distractions will divert your attention away from the road, and it only takes a split second distraction to cause a collision.

Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving

There are several things you can do to prevent distracted driving. For starters, try to get into the habit of pulling your vehicle over to a safe place if you need to make a call or text. Many states prohibit drivers from texting while behind the wheel, and some states even prevent drivers from talking on the phone while behind the wheel. Regardless of whether it's allowed, however, it's always a good idea to pull over when making a call or text.

Alternatively, if there's a passenger in your vehicle, you can ask him or her to make calls or text on your behalf. As the driver, your sole attention should be focused on the road. Allowing a passenger to make calls or text on your behalf will prevent you from becoming distracted.

Another tip to prevent distracted driving is to lower the volume on your vehicle's stereo. There's nothing wrong with listening to the stereo while you drive. It can become a problem, though, if the volume is too loud. Loud music is distracting. It can draw your attention away from the road while increasing your risk of a collision in the process.