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Hey Guys! I’m here to talk about Driving Distractions. Driving is a skill that requires every teen driver’s full attention. The majority of teen deaths every year are caused by car collisions. Being a distracting passenger or distracted driver is just not smart or worth the risk.
Last Saturday I went to the movies with some friends. My friend Ben was driving, and I was sitting in the passenger seat. Although I love Drake, the music was way too loud. My friends, singing and dancing in the back seat, added to the craziness. I could tell Ben’s attention wasn’t focused entirely on driving. I started thinking about the fact that distracted driving is the #1 cause of teen traffic crashes. I started to feel super uncomfortable.
Although I hated putting a damper on all the fun, I valued our lives more, and reached to turn down the music. As soon as I turned it down, I noticed Ben seemed relieved.
Sometimes it’s hard while driving to not be tempted to pick up the phone and check Twitter feed, Snap Chat, or scroll Instagram pics. On the way to school, I’m running late sometimes, and it’s tempting to eat breakfast while driving. I have to always remember – most distractions are temporary and last only seconds, but that second or two can make all the difference between being dead or alive.
When you’re behind the wheel, make your safety and your passenger’s safety, the #1 priority. Your only job when driving is to operate the vehicle safely – and that requires your full attention and focus. So the next time you drive, make sure you remember these distracted driving safety tips. These tips will help save your life.
- put on your seat belt
- put your phone and all electronics out of reach
- adjust your seat, mirrors, and temperature controls before driving
- pay attention to the roadway
- ask your friends to chill so you can pay attention to the road
- don’t drink or eat while driving
- store loose gear – backpacks, sports equipment, etc. – in the trunk so they don’t roll around
