#1 Thing You Need To Know About Cell Phones

I am OBSESSED with my cell phone – I check my email, I text my friends, I scroll through Instagram, I post on Snapchat – I know you get it – because we are all obsessed with our tiny magical devices.  Here’s the thing, though.  There’s a time and place to shut it down, put it on silent and completely ignore it – the car.  Today I’m sharing a post written by my friend’s at Khan Law Firm on how to avoid distracted driving.  I encourage you to read this quick article and SHARE – please share with your family, friends, mailman, etc..  Let’s stay safe my loves!  xoxo

Friendly Reminder to Everyone:  Don’t Drive Distracted

Let’s be honest, whether intentionally or unintentionally, many of us have driven distracted.  We’re busy and these days it’s easier and easier to become distracted while driving.  Let’s talk about some common distractions.

Cell Phone Use

This is a huge one.  In 2014, 33,840 citations for cell phone use while driving were filed in Washington courts.  Reading and replying to texts while driving is just only portion of the problem!  Now, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, SnapChat are right at your fingertips, at all times.

Distractions can take your eyes off the road for seconds at a time.  Taking your eyes off the road, even for a second, puts you and your passengers in danger.

Many of us have the bad habit of using our cell phones while we drive.  If you find yourself frequently taking and making phone calls in the car, consider purchasing a hands-free headset or setting up your vehicle’s integrated phone system. If your issue is more with texting or using apps, take the following steps to avoid phone use in the car:

Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” so you are not tempted by notifications;
Put your phone in a purse on the floor or back seat so you cannot reach it when driving; and
If you drive with a passenger, have your passenger handle all phone use while you are driving.

Other Common Distractions

Cell phone use is definitely not the only form of distraction!  Just some of the newest.  I think we all know someone who was crazy adept at steadying the steering wheel with her knees as she applied her makeup.  To make things worse the rear-view mirror is being use as a personal vanity and not watching the vehicles behind.

Another common distraction is eating while driving. We’re all so busy so grabbing something from the kitchen for on the go or the local fast food place might seem like a great way to save a couple minutes.  You might save a couple minutes but you’re taking a big risk.  Collisions can happen in a matter of seconds.  Even minor accidents and “fender-benders” can cost you thousands of dollars to repair!

It’s not worth it.  Best advice, wake up a little earlier!  I know, mornings can be rough but your safety and the safety of others around you is worth it.

Be an Example

If you are a parent or a role model, it’s important to show the behaviors you want your children to emulate, such as avoiding phone use while driving and obeying the speed limit.

Content sponsored by the Seattle Car Accident Lawyers at Khan Law Firm

If you agree with this article – then comment – I’m In!

Stay safe friends!

XoXo Portia

Disclosure:  I received compensation for this post.  The opinions expressed here represent my own, which I take great pride in providing pure honesty…because I’m OBSESSED with sharing the Good!