Everywhere you look, there is something that can be distractive while driving. Road signs, barking dogs, and strolling passerby are all examples of this. One can’t forget cell phones, radios, and other electronic devices meant to make life easier; however, these things have a habit of causing people to not concentrate on their driving, putting themselves and others a risk.

There’s a lot of research that shows that anything can be a distraction while operating a motor vehicle, and even more that supports that young drivers are more susceptible to this kind of distraction. However, when it comes to paying attention behind the wheel, both young and experienced drivers need to be cautious and alert of the many things that cause accidents.

For instance, people waving and honking their horns, kids in the backseat, being late to work, being on the phone with a spouse or a co-worker can distract anyone. The point is, driving is a skill that hones in on concentration, and anything that threatens that can also threaten the lives of those in the vehicle. Many may ask just how to avoid distractive driving, and the answer is quite simple.

The best way to avoid causing accidents by driving distractedly is to limit the amount of distractions available to you. If too many people in the car is a distraction, drive with only one or two people in the car. If the radio is a hindrance, drive with it off or have a set playlist on an mp3 device, to keep from messing with it while behind the wheel. Pay attention to road signs, but do not let the eyes wander to unnecessary objects too far from the road. And most importantly, turn the cell phone off, or leave it with a passenger who can answer important calls or texts instead.

After all, waiting to read that text or driving with less people in the car can not only save your life, but many other lives around you. Be accountable, and be a safe driver.