Distracted Driving Takes Many Forms | Auto Insurance Tips

Common Forms of Distracted Driving

• Phone Use: Texting or talking on the phone takes your eyes, hands, and mind off the road. It’s against the law!
• Eating and Drinking: This can lead to spills, distractions, and a lack of focus.
• Adjusting Controls: Changing the music or setting the GPS takes your attention away from the road.
• Talking to Passengers: Even casual conversation can distract you, especially in challenging driving conditions.

The Impact on Your Insurance

Distracted driving can lead to accidents, and accidents can raise your insurance premiums. You don’t even have to have an accident for it to affect your premium because texting while driving is against the law.  If you are cited for texting while driving not only can you be fined, but it can affect your insurance. The more often you’re involved in incidents, the higher your rates will be. By avoiding distractions, you can help prevent accidents and keep your insurance rates low.

How to Avoid Distracted Driving

• Put Your Phone Away: Use hands-free devices or turn off your phone while driving.
• Prepare Before Driving: Set your GPS and music before you start driving to avoid fiddling with controls on the road.
• Avoid Eating and Drinking: Wait until you’re parked to eat or drink to keep your focus on driving.
• Limit Conversations: Keep passenger discussions brief, especially when driving in heavy traffic.
• Stay Organized: Keep your car tidy to avoid distractions from items that may need to be reached for.

Stay Focused, Save on Insurance

Distracted driving not only puts your safety at risk but also your wallet. Accidents from distractions lead to insurance claims, which typically raise premiums. Stay focused on the road, avoid distractions, and help keep both your safety and your insurance costs in check.