October 19, 2011 by onstarconnects
Paying Attention Behind the Wheel
With busy lifestyles, there is an increased risk of becoming a distracted driver. Texting, talking on a cell phone and other actions can all become potentially dangerous distractions.
According to the latest statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2009 alone, nearly 5,500 people died and half a million were injured in crashes involving a distracted driver. Distraction-related fatalities represented 16 percent of the overall traffic fatalities in 2009.
When you’re behind the wheel of a two-ton vehicle, you can become a dangerous weapon in a matter of seconds.
When you’re driving:
• Stay alert and pay attention
• Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel
• Never multitask when you are behind the wheel
• Pull off the road if you need to make or take a call, or use hands-free calling
Potentially distracting activities include:
• Texting
• Cell phone calls
• Using a PDA or navigation system
• Watching a video
• Changing the radio station, CD or MP3 player
• Reading, including maps
• Eating and drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming
• Daydreaming or dealing with strong emotions
Sobering Stats
NHTSA reports the following statistics:
• The under-20 age group had the highest proportion of distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes — 16 percent.
• The age group with the next greatest proportion of distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes was the 20- to-29-year-old age group —13 percent.
• Cell phone distraction was reported for 24 percent of the 30-to-39-year-old distracted drivers in fatal crashes.
OnStar is committed to helping drivers stay safe on the road. Built-in Hands-Free Calling(1) and Turn-by-Turn Navigation(2) are two OnStar services that can help keep you connected responsibly.
1 Requires ABS and Directions & Connections Plan. Visit onstar.com for coverage map. Services vary by model.
3 Visit onstar.com for coverage map, details and system limitations.
Source: distraction.gov
Do you have a pet peeve about things people do behind the wheel that distracts them from driving? Let us know in the comments below.
