How often do you talk on your cell phone while driving? Fiddle with the radio trying to tune into the never-ending oldies station? Or get so absorbed in your audio book that you miss your exit? These are just a few of the distractions that can increase your chance of a vehicle collision. Other common distractions include:
- An outside object or event
- Other occupant in vehicle (usually a child)
- Reaching for a moving object in the vehicle
- Adjusting the vehicle/climate controls
- Eating or drinking
- Lighting a cigarette or other smoking-related distractions When you’re in the driver’s seat, make sure all passengers know that driving requires your full attention. You can reduce driving distractions by making necessary vehicle adjustments when you’re stopped. If you are involved in a collision with another vehicle, you may have access to more benefits than your realize. Some roadside assistance programs, such as Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service, provide emergency benefits like a travel-delay-assistance benefit — which reimburses covered expenses up to $1,200 — and free emergency medical referral service. Before embarking on a long trip, take the time to familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s collision-insurance coverage, as well as any benefits offered by your roadside-assistance service. Then keep your mind and eyes on the road, both hands on the wheel, and fingers crossed that you won’t need any of it.
