NCDOT reminds motorists about dangers of distracted driving

RALEIGH - Putting a new disc in the CD player. Sending a text message on the cell phone. Eating breakfast on the go. These are common examples of distractions that plague today's drivers. The N.C. Department of Transportation is reminding motorists of the dangers distracted drivers pose, especially as the holiday travel season approaches.

According to NCDOT statewide crash data, distracted drivers played a role in 2,936 crashes in 2006. Of those, 10 crashes were fatal, and 1,025 crashes involved injuries.

"The number of crashes involving distracted drivers may be even higher than statistics show, because it is often underreported," said Kevin Lacy, NCDOT's state traffic engineer. "Driving comes with responsibility, and people really need to be alert and attentive when they travel on our highways."

When drivers are not focused on the road ahead, they are not able to react as quickly to traffic conditions. Inattentive drivers are less likely to recognize potential hazards, such as debris in the road or slowed traffic, and react to them to avoid a crash. Distracted drivers also pose a greater danger to pedestrians and bicyclists.

Motorists should follow these tips to avoid distractions:

• Pre-program radio stations for easy access and select CDs before you start driving;

• Keep the stereo at a volume low enough so that you can hear sounds outside your vehicle such as a siren, a horn or the screeching of tires;

• Designate a front-seat passenger to serve as a "copilot," so you do not have to fumble with maps or navigation systems. If you are driving alone, map out destinations in advance;

• Teach children the importance of good behavior while in a vehicle. Do not underestimate how distracting it can be to tend to them in the car;

• Avoid talking on a cell phone while driving. If you must call someone, use a handsfree device;

• Do your personal grooming at home, not in the car;

• Make sure pets are in a carrier;

• Do not eat while driving. It prohibits you from keeping your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road;

• Avoid reading billboards and advertisements or watching activity on the roadside for long periods of time;

• Do not stop and talk to people outside your vehicle while driving; and

• Only allow passengers to enter your car when it is parked in a safe location. Do not pick up riders at stoplights or stop signs.

For more information on distracted driving or other factors that contribute to crashes, consult the North Carolina Driver's Handbook. To get a copy, call 1-877-DOT-4YOU or visit www.ncdot.org/dmv/ driverservices/drivershandbook.

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