Driving is a daily activity, and with it comes added risk and responsibility. There are many ways to prevent accidents and make the roadways a little safer. This list only hits on a couple prevention tips, so to all people driving be safe, think twice and don't do anything I wouldn't do.
1. Texting and driving
Laws have been passed in many states to demolish this unsafe habit because it is straight-up stupid. Driving requires a lot of focus and full alertness. These critical things cannot be completed when someone is glancing to the screen vibrating in their hand. So when you are driving, you can simply turn it off, place it in the glove box or keep it out of sight. To prevent this: Do us all a favor and save it for later! Highways and other roads now having places for cars to pull over and check their phones avoiding accidents and providing no room for excuses.
2. Eating
Yes, that means the french fries may be cold. The steering wheel is made for two hands and when your fingers are greasy or wet it can be hard to grip. The luxury of eating and driving is overrated. Most of the time this multitasking results in stains on your new blouse and other avoidable messes. If you are attempting to rush out of the house, this will not save you any time. Between the slowing to take a bite or opening packages and the lack of concentration causes slower arrival time anyways. To prevent this: Eat while the car is parked or in the restaurant or really anywhere, just don't do it while driving!
3. Under the influence
This can mean many things, and it means all of them. So if you have been drinking, taking pills, are deprived of sleep or any other thing you can think of, don't get in the car. If you have curfew and you are too wasted to drive home, don't. If you have been taking pills to help you focus while you study and you need to drive up to your dorm room, don't. If you are leaving a sleepover because you're upset your friend likes the same boy you do, don't. When you are driving and become tired and keep going, don't. Whatever the situation is, do not drive if you are under the influence. To prevent this: If you know you are going to be drinking, get a designated driver or call a cab. If you are taking pills, call your roommate or a friend to pick you up. If you are trying to make curfew call, your parents or simply don't make it. I am sure they would rather see you alive when you get home instead of having to identify a body. Plan ahead!
4. Weather conditions
When it rains, it pours. Whether it be rain, snow, fog or wind, if it is causing vision or roadway difficulties you should stop. The boyfriend can wait another day to see you if it's a blizzard outside. The library book can be one day overdue if your road is washed out. There are many things that may cause someone to drive in bad weather, like bad timing, a funeral, class, work and many more. To prevent this: Always plan for delays and leave yourself enough time. Simply pull over if the rain is coming down too hard. Stay in and call out. Your life is more important than one shift at work.
