Safe driving requires careful focus and attention, and even if the road ahead looks predictable, an unexpected event can occur, forcing you to react quickly. While it may seem insubstantial at the time, a moment of distracted driving can directly lead to a car accident. Here are a few behaviors to avoid to reduce your risk of an accident while behind the wheel.

3 Common Distracted Driving Actions

1. Texting a Friend

The most dangerous distraction on the road is texting while driving. When you look at your phone, you could potentially drift out of the lane or fail to dodge a moving obstacle. To avoid the temptation of using your device and reduce your risk of a car accident, put your phone on silent, in your purse, or on the backseat.

2. Eating a Snack

It’s normal to get hungry while on the road, and while unwrapping a sandwich or adding condiments may seem simple, they create a drain on your attention that leaves you less responsive. The safest option is to plan your meals wisely so plan to have a snack or meal before lengthy commutes. If you’re feeling hunger pangs, pull over into a parking lot for a few minutes and enjoy your food safely in a stall.

3. Fiddling With Car Applications

Many new cars come with a variety of powerful features, like GPS or Spotify©. Although these applications make the drive convenient and fun., every second you’re typing in an address or scrolling to find a favorite song, you’re no longer aware of what’s happening around you. A best practice is to either handle all of these logistics before setting out, or allowing a passenger to take care of directions and music.

Life happens, and if you have a car accident despite following these tips, make an appointment with the team at Basic Auto Collision Team in Honolulu, HI. This body shop is experienced with automotive repair and specializes in high-luxury vehicle bodywork. The collision repair crew offers a variety of affordable services, including 4-wheel alignment, color matching, and brake and suspension repair. Call (808) 842-3966 to schedule a Saturday appointment or sending a message online to request an estimate.