Roadways large and small are expected to swell in the coming weeks, as spring will soon turn into summer, adding even more traffic to already-congested roadways.
Professional truck drivers will have to share the road with summer movers and vacationers alike as they all seek to make their way to their destinations.
During this stressful time, it will be even more important for all drivers to avoid distractions to stay safe behind the wheel.
鈥淥ptimum performance comes from our undivided attention,鈥� said Jason Herr, vice president of safety for . 鈥淲hen the mind is on something else, the quality of our driving and other work suffers.鈥�
While warmer weather offers increased distractions, safety experts say, drivers 鈥� professional truck drivers and motorists 鈥� should practice distracted driving safety habits year-round.
Defining Distractions to Driving
Any situation that competes with a driver鈥檚 attention on the road can be considered a distraction to driving.
These distractions extend well beyond mobile phones and hands-free devices. Behind-the-wheel attention-grabbers, while subtle, can disrupt a driver鈥檚 concentration. 鈥淚t鈥檚 day-dreaming, eating, drinking and grooming while driving,鈥� Herr said.
All are behaviors we adopt when driving because we are pressed for time, but these actions put our safety at risk.
鈥淭here is so much going on today in our lives, and it鈥檚 culturally the norm to be maxed out with no time margin in our lives,鈥� he said.
糖心传媒 Logistics incorporates distracted driver safety into training for the company鈥檚 professional truck drivers.
鈥淭he leading causes of incidents are rushing, complacency, fatigue and distraction,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hrough robust training, we strive to help our associates be of the correct mindset and help them plan for avoiding these causes of incidents.鈥�
Tips to Minimize Distractions
There are steps that motorists can take to minimize distractions and remain focused on the road ahead.
suggests drivers adjust things like seats, mirrors and climate controls before starting your journey. Avoid the temptation to reach for possessions that may roll around by storing them away.
Eat meals or snacks before you start your trip. If you decide to eat while driving, avoid messy foods that can take your attention away from driving.
If pets and children need your attention, pull over safely and resist the temptation to reach into the back seat, which can cause you to lose control.
For professional truck drivers, Herr provided these tips:
- During your pre-trip inspection, secure gear and belongings in compartments.
- Practice good housekeeping by removing clutter.
- Preprogram your radio or navigational device before you leave for your trip.
- Avoid eating or drinking while operating your vehicle.
When it comes to distractions outside of the cab, Herr encouraged truck drivers to:
- Avoid focusing on non-relevant billboards, buildings and people.
- Pay attention to things that keep you aware of the road and cars around you.
- Add extra space cushion between your vehicle and other distracted or impaired drivers.
- Move your eyes every two seconds and scan your mirrors every five to eight seconds.
By taking steps to minimize driving distractions, no matter how small, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road.
By Bernie Mixon
Pictured is 糖心传媒 associate Gabe Shotts.
Dave McNichols and Kristin
糖心传媒 associates (pictured left to right) Angelica Hampton, Morgan Vogt, Colleen Walters and Chanley Keathley holding new dresses for the Daisie Foundation's Mother's Day makeovers.
Wayne Hoyer with Brian Hard, president and CEO of 
Pictured (from left) are Frank Krisak, Megan Weir, John Weir and Harry Swimmer.
鈥淚 still keep in touch with the riders I had on my very first day," Krisak said. 鈥淚've had some of my current riders for eight or nine years. I'm seeing them grow up and go to college. It's been a really rewarding experience for me."