Greg shares tips to avoid distractions behind the wheel in this episode of Ask The Expert. 800 CHAB radio presents Ask the Expert with Greg Marcyniuk of Heritage Insurance located in Moose Jaw.
Here's a full transcript of the episode.
Rob Carnie: Greg Marcyniuk, Heritage Insurance, on CHAB's Ask The Expert today, and Greg, we're talking about distracted driving today.
So many people using their cell phones while they're driving. But we got to point out today, it's not just cell phones. I mean, you can be distracted when you're driving, when you're drinking coffee, eating breakfast. I've seen people reading in their vehicles while they're driving. Distracted driving is distracted driving.
Greg Marcyniuk: That's right, Rob, and driving distracted has actually joined the ranks of driving under the influence, as well as speeding. In fact, it's a leading factor in crashes and fatalities. And again, cell phones are not solely to blame here. So here's three main types of distractions.
First of all, there's the visual. That's taking your eyes off the road. Manual, taking your hands off the wheel. And cognitive, which is taking your mind off the driving wheel. And again, whether you're driving for work or personal reasons, it's always important to remember that you should be engaged while you're driving at all times. So these are just a few tips to keep you engaged in your driving.
First and foremost is, silence your mobile device or your cell phone and keep it away from you — so it avoids you from being distracted by taking calls or texts. Now, if you do receive a phone call, even if you are hand on hands-free, you should pull over. Because even on hands-free, it still is a distraction.
If you're going and you're having to use a navigational device, such as your screen in your vehicle, take the time before you take off to set that so that you're on your way. The other thing is, make a playlist on your cell phone so that you're not having to change radio stations, or set your radio station and keep it there. And avoid eating while driving.
If you have to eat, take proper breaks. And it's good to have that break and allow yourself time for the meals. If you're a passenger, and you find that somebody is driving distracted or starting to get tired, offer to get behind the wheel.
So these are tips that you should be thinking of. And the other thing to keep in mind. When and if you do read a text while you're driving, it's equivalent of actually driving blindfolded for five seconds, just by looking at that. So, that's how dangerous that is to look at that text.
So keep your eyes up, keep them on the road, and try to drive engaged.
Rob: You know, another thing that bothers me when I see it is people driving down the road with a dog on their lap or a dog on their arm looking out the window. That's a distraction.
Greg: Yes. And again, there are tickets that police, if they see it, they are very much looking for it. So I would certainly recommend, again, to be engaged while you're driving. That way, you're going to be safe, your passengers are going to be safe, and everyone else outside and around you will be safe as well.
Rob: Take a look at the tips online?
Greg: That's correct, nohassleinsurance.ca or come and see any of us here at the corner of First and Fairford West.
(Video transcription by Speechpad)