[April 07, 2017]

GEICO says, 'Distractions are like blindfolds- keep them out of the driver's seat'

If a brain surgeon texted while performing surgery, or a chemist called to get baseball scores while mixing flammable compounds, or a pilot took a selfie while landing a helicopter, what do you think the outcome would be? Not very good would be your first thought.

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Distractions behind the wheel are like blindfolds. They could cause you to miss pedestrians, road signs, hazards and emergency vehicles. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The same goes for drivers who operate their vehicles while distracted. You just can't expect a good outcome.

To mark Distracted Driving Awareness Month, GEICO wants drivers to stay in the know on distractions behind the wheel, and offers these thoughts on how to do just that.

Are you driving distracted?

1. My car has voice command technology, and that keeps me from becoming distracted, right?
   
   
   This isn't always the case. While voice commands help keep your hands on the wheel, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found drivers still took their eyes off the road while using them. Voice commands also can cause the driver to lose focus. If the system makes an error with an address on the GPS for example, it can easily cause drivers to divert their attention, which can lead to a driving error.
2. Can I do things like texting and putting on makeup while driving because I'm a really good multi-tasker?
   
   Actually, multi-tasking is a big myth; so the answer is no. Our brains rapidly switch between tasks, which can have a significant impact on driving performance.
3. How can driving distracted blind a driver?
   
   Distractions can cause what researchers call inattention blindness, which could lead to drivers missing objects such as emergency vehicles, road signs and pedestrians as a result of a distraction according to IIHS.
4. What are the consequences of driving distracted?
   
   Drivers who choose to text behind the wheel or operate a handheld device could potentially face fines according to IIHS. Additionally, drivers' insurance rates could increase if they cause a crash as a result of driving distracted.

Set a Safe Driving Example

Become a part of the solution to distracted driving by leaving distractions out of your daily drives. Keep phones on silent, set GPS destinations before shifting into drive, pull over to eat and take care of your primping needs earlier or later.

If you find yourself riding with a distracted driver, don't be afraid to speak up and voice your concern - sometimes safe driving needs to stretch to the passenger seat, too.

For more safe driving tips, visit the car safety page on the GEICO More content hub.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170407005080/en/

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