Commercial vehicle drivers in Kentucky spend so much time on the road that they may think nothing of multitasking behind the wheel. However, distracted driving is dangerous for both drivers and passengers, and it is important for professional drivers to minimize these distractions.
Some commercial vehicle drivers may think they are not distracted if they are not on their cellphones. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that cellphones are not the only sources of distractions. People also take their attention off the road when they use their navigation system, change the radio station and eat or drink. However, cellphone use behind the wheel is also dangerous. People may easily drive the length of a football field if they look at a text message for five seconds. It is important for professional drivers to take distracted driving seriously because it can sometimes result in fatalities. In 2017, distracted driving resulted in the deaths of 3,166 people.
There are many ways professional drivers can minimize distracted driving. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is important to focus on the road. Drivers should usually look for bicyclists and pedestrians, as well as watch the other cars. This allows people to anticipate when they might need to merge into a different lane or stop suddenly. Additionally, objects in the passenger seat or the glove box may distract a driver. People should usually refrain from catching objects which fall off seats. If they have to pick something up, it is a good idea to wait until they stop the car.
Because cellphones provide many distractions through calls, text messages and emails, drivers should typically put these devices away when they are on the road. Sometimes people may want to use a hands-free setting. However, this can also be distracting, so it is a good idea to limit the use of these devices to emergencies. Professional drivers should usually pull over if they have to use their cellphones.
