While I consider myself generally a good driver, I know that isn’t always the case and I could always do better. I’ve come to understand the importance of being a cautious and defensive drive after experiencing my first––and only––minor accident. While no damage was done and we both went our separate ways, I can acknowledge the mistake that had led me there. I get distracted far too easily. Not in the sense that I’m looking at my phone or watching a movie or looking back to a friend, but more in the way that I get lost in my thoughts. I’m not ashamed to admit that there are things in life––for me that includes driving––that I can do better at. I tend to overthink conversations I’ve had with people or situations I’m going through or music that is currently playing that my full attention isn’t on the road. It’s almost as if I’m driving in auto-pilot and I am slightly unaware of any possible threats that might occur. This is why it’s so important that I take steps to fix this issue.
The first I would take is setting up a playlist before I even sit down in the car. Having music already queued up will take my mind off of whether or not I like the song playing. I know what’s coming and I think less about it. Also, I need to keep my music at a lower volume. I must be able to hear what is going on around me whether it’s an ambulance or police officer or an incoming accident. Driving involves many of our senses, so having them available and ready is vital. With a lower volume, I also am less inclined to listen to the lyrics that distract me even further by trying to decipher what the artist is saying/meaning.
From there, I need to look at my mirrors more often. By switching up where I keep my eyes, it forces me to pay more attention to my surroundings and the actions I’m about to take. By just staring off into the road, I’ll be more inclined to daydream. Switching up focus from my mirrors to the road to the cars around me, it’ll keep in razor-sharp concentration that’ll help decrease distracted driving.
Ultimately, I need to be mindful of my communications with other cars. Watch for signals and the speed limit of traffic. I need to be mindful of how others are driving to adjust the way I’m driving so that can properly follow safety. By not speeding and constantly switching lanes, I create a safer environment for other people and myself. And while these are steps I am currently taking, they are also important steps for everyone else to take. We must do everything we can to keep ourselves and each other safe. Life is far too precious to lose.