April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a reminder to understand the importance of staying focused on the road. In the U.S., one of every ten fatal crashes involves distraction, resulting in over 3,000 deaths per year, according to the NHTSA.

Raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving can help save lives. We’ve put together some key tips to help you steer clear of distracted driving and stay safe on the road. 

1. Put Down the Phone 

One of the leading causes of distracted driving is phone use. Whether it is texting, scrolling on social media, or making a quick call, your attention should always be on the road. Consider turning on “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving or take advantage of voice-activated features to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. 

In Michigan, it is illegal to hold or use a cell phone or other mobile electronic device while driving, except for hands-free use or in emergencies to reach 911. 

Hands-free features, such as Bluetooth or voice-activated systems within the vehicle, are allowed as long as they can be operated with a single touch. Anything beyond a single touch is against the law, even if a cell phone is mounted on your dashboard or connected to your vehicle’s integrated system. 

2. Plan Ahead 

Make sure to plan your route and set up the radio or any music before you hit the road. If you need to adjust your route mid-drive, pull over safely to make changes or ask a passenger for assistance. GPS and music can be major distractions, so it is important to be prepared before you start driving. 

3. Limit Passengers 

Having too many passengers can lead to distractions, especially if they’re loud. Keep the number of passengers to a minimum and remind everyone to respect your focus while you’re driving. 

4. Avoid Eating and Drinking 

It is easy to think you can multitask while eating or sipping your morning coffee, but these can divert your attention. Try to eat before you get behind the wheel or save snacks for when you’re parked. 

5. Educate Others 

Talk to friends and family about the importance of avoiding distractions while driving and encourage them to make safe driving a priority. The more we all understand the risks, the better we can work together to create safer roads. 

Conclusion 

Distracted driving is a serious issue that affects everyone on the road. By following these simple tips, you can help reduce distracted driving accidents and contribute to safer driving conditions for everyone. This April, let’s commit to making our roads safer.