Distracted driving is any activity a driver engages in that shifts their attention from driving.
There are three main kinds of distractions:
• Visual – taking your eyes off the road
• Manual – taking your hands off the wheel
• Mental – taking your mind off the task of driving
Driving safely is every driver’s responsibility. The use of cell phones, texting and other electronic devices including GPS navigation aids all pose great risk. The same goes for fatigue, eating or drinking, grooming, noisy passengers, misbehaving children, searching for radio stations, reaching for an object, and unrestrained pets.
Make a “not while driving” rule for using your devices and help lower crash rates. Drivers using cell phones are four times more likely to get in an accident. Plan to avoid distractions whenever possible and resist temptations to watch outside distractions such as people and happenings outside your vehicle. Keep your mind clear so you are focused on driving.
(Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
WARNING: USING YOUR CELL PHONE’S GPS COULD EARN YOU A TICKET IN Rhode Island.
Please note, this article was written to help you in general terms. Please consult an insurance professional to discuss your specific situation as it relates to things discussed in this article.
David Brush, CIC
Nancy Mendizabal, CIC
Apple Valley Insurance
Greenville, RI
Apple Valley Insurance helps people and businesses with insurance needs. We are a locally owned Smithfield, Rhode Island independent business that enjoys working with fellow small business owners. We serve all of Rhode Island and have many options, providing personal and business insurance programs. Contact us for a review or if you are concerned about having the right insurance coverage.