Distracted Driving in Minnesota

It goes without saying that driving a car is a big responsibility. As a driver, your actions behind the wheel play a big role in the safety and wellbeing of yourself as well as others – your passengers, other drivers and even pedestrians. If you drive while distracted, you are putting everyone in danger.

Unfortunately, distracted driving is becoming somewhat of an epidemic, not only in Minnesota but also across the country. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety defines distracted or inattentive driving as a driver engaging “in any activity that might distract them from the primary task of driving – and increase their risk of crashing.”

Each year in Minnesota, distracted driving is a factor in one in four crashes, resulting in over 70 deaths and more than 350 serious injuries.

That’s too many.

Common Distractions

Drivers face many unnecessary distractions when behind the wheel. Some of the most common distractions are also some of the easier distractions to control. They include:

1. Phone Calls – Even with hands-free phones, talking on the phone takes your attention off of the road and onto the conversation. When you get in your car, turn your ringer off, put your phone out of reach, or only have passengers handle your phone calls while you are driving. And remember, it’s illegal for drivers with learning permits or provisional licenses to use a mobile phone while driving.
2. Texting – People text and drive all the time, even though it is illegal. In fact, it’s illegal for all drivers to read or compose text or emails, or access the web while the vehicle is in motion or part of traffic. Many newer mobile phones now give you the option to turn off all notifications while in the car. You also can download apps that simply lock your phone while you are driving.
3. Eating and Drinking – Drivers have been doing this for decades, but it really is a distraction. Wait to indulge in your food or drink until after you arrive at your destination.
4. Adjusting Controls – Whether it’s the angle of the mirrors or station on the radio, try to adjust everything that needs adjusting before heading out to your destination.
5. Reading – Let your passengers read the map or the GPS for you so your eyes and attention can stay on the road.
6. Drowsy Driving – a tired driver is a distracted driver. If you are too tired to drive, either get some rest or give someone else the keys. And despite what you may have heard, an open window or loud music won’t help you.
7. Other Passengers – sometimes your passengers can provide the biggest distractions for you. Speak up if someone in your car is doing something to divert your attention from the road.

Remember, driving while distracted not only puts your life in danger. It also puts the lives of your passengers, other drivers and even pedestrians in danger. Whatever distraction is tempting you to take your attention off of the road can wait. The alternative is not worth it.

My clients are important to me, and I am passionate about helping to keep them – and our roads – safe. If you have any questions about distracted driving or would like more information, please feel free to reach out. I am here to help.

And, here are a couple of videos that drive home the importance of driving without distractions.