Distracted drivers cause hundreds of thousands of vehicle accidents every year. This type of event can leave you without transportation, increase your auto insurance rates, and cause serious injuries or fatalities. To boost your defensive driving habits, here's a closer look at some of the most common mistakes drivers make.

How Do Drivers Get Distracted?

1. Applying Makeup

When someone is running late, it's tempting to take care of certain tasks, such as putting on makeup, while sitting in traffic. However, this requires drivers to take their eyes off the road while looking into the rearview mirror. This practice is most common among women between 17 and 21 years of age. To avoid this risky behavior, leave more time in the morning to get ready for school or work. 

2. Using Digital Devices

When moving at 55 mph, you can travel the distance of a football field simply by taking your eyes off the road for a mere five seconds to read a text. A single moment can be deadly, so it's essential to avoid digital device use until you've safely parked your vehicle. 

This includes sending and receiving texts, dialing a phone number, and even checking your map app. If you need GPS assistance to get to your destination, ask a passenger to navigate for you. Otherwise, turn on voice navigation and use a hands-free device.

3. Talking to Passengers

Unfortunately, an animated conversation with passengers can have tragic results. This is particularly true of backseat passengers, where the driver must look over their shoulder or into the rearview mirror to make eye contact. Either way, they take their eyes off the road for those crucial few seconds. It's fine to have a conversation, but always face forward and keep your eyes on the road ahead. 

Distracted driving puts you and your passengers at risk of an accident. If you need quality auto insurance to protect yourself, contact 1st Choice Insurance in Fairfield, OH. They are family-owned and serve clients throughout Butler County. They specialize in helping high-risk drivers, including offering low-cost SR-22 bond insurance. They can also help you put together the best affordable RV or motorcycle insurance policy. Learn more about the agency by visiting their website or calling (513) 860-0666 to request an auto insurance quote.