Sending or reading an average text message takes drivers’ eyes off the road for 4 to 5 seconds, which means at 55 miles per hour, a texting driver would travel the length of a football field without looking at the road — as if being blindfolded. That is something nobody would, or should, consciously consider doing. Any time you take your hands off the wheel, your eyes off the road, and especially your mind off of your driving, you put yourself, your passengers and others on the road at risk. Resolve to not use your phone this year while driving.
Here are a few more driving resolutions for 2019:
Drive the posted speed limit, slow down for construction and emergency vehicles, and always drive slower and more cautiously when weather conditions are bad. Keep the proper distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you, leaving enough room to stop in an emergency.
Make sure you are prepared to drive. Always arrange for a sober driver or ride home if alcohol is consumed. And, make sure to not drive while drowsy. By being well-rested and sober before getting behind the wheel, motorists will be better prepared to arrive at their destination safely.
Take the few seconds to put on your seatbelt and make sure that all passengers are also buckled up. Take time to be sure that all children are riding in the correct car seat for their age, weight, and developmental stage. Also, get a car seat inspection by a certified child passenger safety technician to make sure the car seats are being used and installed correctly.
Vvy
And last but not least, be a role model for the teen drivers in your family and for their friends. Show them what it means to focus on your driving.
FABLOW AgriLife, reminds us that making a resolution to improve your driving habits in all of these driving areas may very well save your life and the lives of others on the road.
By: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Passenger Safety