Every April is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month to educate the public about the persistent problem of distracted driving. At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., we are doing our part to raise awareness by sharing our distracted driving prevention tips: Below are our 5 tips to keep everyone on the road safe and out of harm’s way.
Take Action with Our 5 Safe Driving Tips
- Drive Now, Eat Later
Although many drivers believe that eating and driving is not dangerous, only convenient, it is a form of distracted driving. Wake up 10 minutes earlier to eat breakfast before you leave for your morning commute. Or, if you are picking up food, wait until you arrive at your destination to eat.
- Don’t Drive while Drowsy
Drowsiness is another oft-overlooked driver distraction. In fact, many drivers think nothing of getting behind the wheel with little sleep or after a long day. Unfortunately, fatigue can lead to brain fog, and brain fog can and does result in traffic accidents. Delay your trip or carpool instead of driving while drowsy. If you find yourself getting tired while behind the wheel, safely pull over to rest your eyes for a bit. Remember, rest stops are not only for truck drivers.
- Refrain from Texting and Driving
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting is the leading type of distracted driving — and the most dangerous. Before driving, silence your phone and put it in a spot where it cannot distract you.
- Drive with a Co-Pilot
If you are driving with a baby on board or in a new area, having a passenger act as your co-pilot can greatly reduce your chances of getting distracted while driving. For instance, they could placate your baby if they begin to fuss, or they could lend an extra pair of eyes amid a work zone, answer urgent text messages, and more.
- Plan Your Drive Ahead of Time
Even if you are driving somewhere you have been before, try to plan your drive before you leave your house. Check for any traffic delays or hazardous road conditions online, and make sure to take a minute or two to get situated in the driver’s seat, such as by picking your music and adjusting your mirrors, before you begin driving.
Protecting the Rights of New Hampshire and Maine Residents
For 40 years, Shaheen & Gordon, P.A. has represented Northern New England residents in the civil and criminal justice systems. We are committed to fighting for wronged individuals. This may mean fighting on the side of the plaintiff in a personal injury case after they have suffered severe injuries due to a distracted driver. It may also mean fighting on the side of the accused in a criminal defense case, as they may be facing harsh penalties such as fines, suspended driving privileges, etc. Sadly, auto accidents may lead to either of these types of cases. If you have been injured or need help navigating the legal system we will advocate passionately for your rights.
Our team of experienced trial attorneys handles every facet of each client’s case, from investigation to resolution. In personal injury matters we regularly achieve significant settlements and verdicts for our clients; in criminal court, we make sure the accused are treated fairlyAs a result of our well-rounded legal skills, we are recognized in New Hampshire, Maine, and at the national level by industry organizations, such as Super Lawyers® and U.S. News – Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms, among others.
Contact Shaheen & Gordon, P.A. online today to get started.
