Tips to prevent distracted driving

August 11, 2022

Tips to prevent distracted driving

August 11, 2022

Texting is one of the most common forms of distracted driving. Here are some tips to help you keep your eyes on the road

We’ve all done it. Snuck a peek at an incoming text when we should be keeping our eyes and attention solely on the road. It’s distracted driving, and it’s more common than you may think. Eating, applying makeup, talking to others and adjusting the radio — all are forms of distracted driving, which can be dangerous.

 

In the U.S., it’s a big problem — distracted driving caused more than 3,000 deaths and 324,000 injuries in 2020, according to a recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. OnStar* is all about helping keep you safe while you’re out on the road, so here are some commonsense tips to help keep you and your loved ones’ eyes and minds focused on the road.

 

Put your phone away
If you need to talk or text, pull over. Better yet, set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode and put it out of reach to minimize temptation for a quick browse online while at a red light.


You can also connect your smartphone to your vehicle’s speakers with Bluetooth®* pairing if you want to stay updated on incoming messages and calls while keeping your hands on the wheel.

Use a designated texter
If you’re driving with someone, let your passenger read and send your text messages, or enable Bluetooth® pairing.

 

Limit the number of passengers
Crash risk is highest during the first months that teen drivers have their license, so consider restricting the number of passengers until your new driver gains experience behind the wheel. Motor vehicle crashes are the second leading cause of death for U.S. teens, and the crash risk increases with each additional teen or young adult passenger.

 

Properly secure kids and pets
Traveling with pets and kids can be a challenge if you’re not prepared. In addition to packing games and snacks, make sure to bring the right car seat and pet carrier. Everyone should be properly buckled in and restrained, not only to be safe, but also to avoid fidgety distractions.

No multitasking
Make a promise not to multitask and stick to it. Don’t eat, drink or smoke while driving. Make time at home to eat or put on makeup, so your focus is only on the road.
 
Set your navigation
Before you hit the road, program your destination into your GPS so you’re not trying to do it while you drive.
Set a good example and encourage others not to text and drive
Parents can model good behavior for their kids by practicing what they preach with attentive driving habits. And if you see someone texting and driving, speak up and encourage them to put the phone away.
 

Have a talk with your boss
Let your employer know you need to limit your phone conversations and texting while driving.

 

The next time you’re driving, try incorporating some of these tips. And don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re a passenger in a distracted driver’s vehicle.

Get security and then some

Combine OnStar safety services like Automatic Crash Response and Roadside Assistance with some amazing conveniences.

A watchful eye far away from home

Brian was hours away when his son, Evan, got into a crash, but he was reassured knowing Evan had the OnStar Guardian app.

Which OnStar button do you push?

To get help from OnStar, you just need to push a button. Here’s how to know which one.

Get security and then some

Combine OnStar safety services like Automatic Crash Response and Roadside Assistance with some amazing conveniences.

A watchful eye far away from home

Brian was hours away when his son, Evan, got into a crash, but he was reassured knowing Evan had the OnStar Guardian app.

Which OnStar button do you push?

To get help from OnStar, you just need to push a button. Here’s how to know which one.