Distracted driving is a topic that keeps coming up in the news and conversations again and again. There are many reasons to try to keep distracted driving to a minimum. Taking a few steps to stop this type of driving can save many lives and countless legal situations too.

Did you know that in 2014 over 433,000 people were injured or killed because of distracted driving? Those numbers are true and growing each year and so is the sad reality faced by each family that those statistics impact every year. The good news is, there is much that can be done to stop those numbers from continuing to grow. It all starts with understanding the key facts and statistics of distracted driving.

Distracted driving includes texting. In 2014 there were over 150 billion texts sent every month in the US. We all know we should not text and drive. However, many people still do it. Texting is not the only thing however, distracted driving also includes talking on a cell phone, research on a smart phone or the internet, adjusting the radio, and even using the GPS. We know that all these things can be important at times but not while operating a moving vehicle. At times it can be hard to find a happy medium, however, we need to take steps to protect everyone involved.

Here are a few simple tips that will help every driver avoid distracted driving issues. First, adjust the music to a nice volume before you start out. Do this while your vehicle is parked. Next, take the time to set your address in the GPS and hand it to the person in the passenger seat if you have one. That person can help you to make sure you get the directions clearly and arrive safe.

Avoid using your smart phone or cell phone

If a call or text comes in, do not take it. You should reply to all calls and text messages only when you are not driving. Waiting for a few minutes to respond is a lot safer than distracted driving.

Avoid eating and drinking while you drive

Let’s face it, the car is no place to eating jelly donuts while driving down the highway at 65 miles per hour. It’s just a distraction that should be avoided to keep everyone safely.

Talking to passengers

It is fine to have some conversation but, do what you need to in order to keep everyone safe regardless of the length of the ride. If you have to stop talking to passengers or ask them to be quiet, do so.

Grooming can be another distraction

So, make sure that you put your makeup on before you drive or as soon as you get to the place you are going. Do not worry about your hairstyle or anything else while you drive. Just drive and be safe. Remember that the life you save can be your own and perhaps the lives of others too.

If you get into an accident or know someone who does, you should contact an vehicle accident attorney. A lawyer who specializes in auto accidents and distracted driving laws will know what steps to take to help defend you. It is always in your best interest to talk to a legal professional as soon as possible to help protect your rights.

Have you been in an accident? If so, why not contact an attorney today while everything is still fresh in your mind?