Roughly 6 million road accidents occur each year in the US. If you’re a distracted driver, you might be at risk. 

What are some examples of distracted driving? Are you wondering if you need to make changes to avoid driver distractions? Read on for our list of distractions while driving and what you can do to prevent them. 

Top Nine Driver Distractions

There are over 200 million registered drivers in the US. With such a huge number of vehicles on the road each day, accidents are guaranteed to happen. 

Even if you’re a practiced driver, you could still be at risk of driver distractions. Here are the top nine causes for distracted driving. 

1. Daydreaming

When you’re tired or tend to get lost in your thoughts, it’s easy to start daydreaming while driving. This can easily lead to mistakes like running a stop sign or not checking before switching lanes. Make sure you are rested and alert if you’re headed out. 

2. Cell Phones

If you have a hard time ignoring texts or calls, put your cell phone in a purse or glove compartment. You might think it’ll only take a second to look down at the screen, but a serious accident can happen in a moment. 

3. GPS

If you rely on a GPS route to get you to your destination, take time to set it up before you start driving. This is an easy step you can take to avoid being in a car accident caused by driving distractions.

4. Adjusting Music or Controls

It may seem like a small thing to push a few buttons for a CD or AC, but it’s enough of a distraction to take your eyes off of the road. Instead of adjusting settings, pull over or set things up before you leave your house. 

5. Applying Makeup

When you’re in a rush, you might think your only option is to put on makeup while driving. Even if you’re just adding lipstick or combing your hair, these types of distractions can lead to an accident. Avoid pulling down that mirror and instead finish getting ready once the car is parked. 

6. Talking to Passengers

If you’re driving with a friend, it’s only natural to strike up a conversation. But make sure to remember that safe driving comes first. Keep your eyes on the road, and keep the conversation light and easy if you need to. 

7. Eating or Drinking

Getting food while on the go can be a cheap and easy option. But eating while driving takes your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel. If you’re not careful, you might end up paying for a car accident settlement. 

8. Handling Children or Pets

It can often be stressful while driving your kids home or taking your pet to the groomer. To avoid distractions while driving, make sure your kids are buckled up and pull over if a situation arises. You should also make sure your pet has a secure place to rest while the car is in motion. 

9. Smoking

Lighting up a cigarette is an activity that takes your attention off the road. Avoid smoking while driving so that you can focus on driving. 

Get Home Safely

Life gets busy and it can be tempting to multitask while driving. But remember that every time you take your eyes off of the road, you’re putting yourself and others at risk. It’s easier than you think to avoid driver distractions if you take the time to prepare for the journey. 

Have you been in an accident and need attorney advice? Here are five questions to ask a car accident lawyer.