How to counter distracted driving

Smartphones are now a way of life that will not go away any time soon. In 2016 alone, over 3,400 Americans lost their lives from car accidents that involved at least one distracted driver, according to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

Some people rely on their smartphones when they drive for music or GPS. If you fall into that category, then you may not want to hear that you should simply leave your phone in your pocket until you reach your destination. However, you can at least take steps so that you can use your device without taking your eyes off the road or your hands off the steering wheel. 

Use a phone holder

You should never text or take calls when you are behind the wheel. However, if you need to use your phone’s GPS, then you should place it in a phone holder that you attach to the dash. Your phone will tell you where to go, and you will not have to touch the screen to utilize it. 

Set up GPS beforehand

You may know exactly where to go for the first few miles. Even in this instance, you will be better off setting up your GPS so that you do not have to mess with it while you are on the road. This also gives you sufficient time to see what the quickest route will be. Do not meddle with your phone to see if you can save time; it is better to arrive late than to get in a crash. 

Queue songs ahead of time

Similarly to how you should set up your GPS before hitting the road, you should also queue your playlist if you like to listen to certain songs while driving. Most music-playing apps allow you to create playlists, so you can listen to precisely what you want without having to skip songs while driving. Under no circumstances should you take a hand off the wheel to change something on your phone.