Stay safe during Distracted Driving Awareness Month with tips from Carter Express. Learn how to avoid visual, manual, and cognitive distractions, stay alert, and protect yourself and others. From putting your phone away to taking breaks and planning, small actions make a big difference. Stay focused, stay safe—because every second behind the wheel matters.
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the dangers of distracted driving and recommit to safe driving practices. As professional drivers for Carter Express, you have a crucial responsibility to protect not only yourself but also everyone else on the road. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents, and by staying alert and focused, you can help reduce the risks for yourself, your fellow drivers, and the public.
Here’s a reminder of how you can stay safe while driving and minimize distractions behind the wheel.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines three main types of distractions:
Even a momentary distraction can lead to catastrophic and irreversible consequences. As a professional driver, staying fully engaged in driving is essential.
Tips to Avoid Distractions and Stay Safe
We all know how tempting it can be to check a message or answer a call while driving. However, texting or using your phone while behind the wheel is dangerous and illegal in many states. The best way to avoid the temptation is to keep your phone out of reach—put it in a bag or a compartment where you won’t be able to see it. Stay and end calls when you’re safely parked.
If you absolutely must take a call, use hands-free options like Bluetooth or voice-activated commands. This allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Make sure you’re familiar with the system before you start driving so, you’re not fumbling with controls while on the road.
Avoid distractions from navigation by setting up your GPS or mapping app before you start your trip. If you need to make adjustments during the drive, pull over to a safe spot and do it there. It’s always better to be safe than distracted.
Fatigue is a form of distraction that many drivers overlook. Ensure you get enough rest before driving and take regular breaks during your shift. When you’re tired, your reaction times are slower, and your attention is compromised. Resting and staying alert are essential to staying safe on the road.
A cluttered cabin can distract you when you’re looking for something, whether it’s paperwork, tools, or snacks. Keep your truck neat and organized so that everything is easy to find. If you’re constantly looking around for something, you’re not paying full attention to the road.
Eating behind the wheel is a major source of distraction. It takes your hands off the wheel and your focus off the road. If you need to eat, pull over and take a break to enjoy your meal safely. Eating while driving also increases the risk of choking or spilling, which can further distract you.
It may seem obvious, but keeping your full attention on the road is essential. Avoid engaging in long conversations with passengers or becoming lost in thoughts or daydreaming. Stay alert to changes in traffic, weather, or road conditions so that you can respond quickly and appropriately.
Remember: You’re Not Just Driving for Yourself
As a driver for Carter Express, you are part of a larger team that values safety above all else. Your actions on the road directly affect not only you, but the safety of everyone around you. A distracted driver can cause accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. By staying focused and reducing distractions, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re protecting your fellow drivers, your passengers, and your community.
At Carter Express, we believe that through education and awareness, we can all make the roads safer for everyone. This Distracted Driving Awareness Month, take a moment to reflect on your driving habits and think about how you can further reduce distractions. Whether it’s putting your phone away or taking a break when needed, small changes can make a big difference. By working together and staying committed to safety, we can all contribute to a safer road experience for everyone.
Thank you for your continued dedication to road safety. Stay focused, stay safe!
