Smart phones have made our lives easier in some ways and harder in others. Yes, we can order a pizza with the click of an app, or stay in touch with a far-flung friend, but all that stimulation at our fingertips can present a bit of a challenge when it comes to situations that need our full attention, such as driving.
In fact, according to Renee Corwin-Rey at Corwin-Rey Insurance, car accidents in the state of Washington are caused by one of three things: poor weather conditions, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and driving while being distracted.
So what counts as distracted driving? It’s not just texting a friend or colleague as you cruise down the road. Almost anything that takes our mental focus from the important task of operating a vehicle in traffic counts as a distraction. From bending down to find a pacifier that has fallen onto the floorboards of the car so the baby will stop wailing to switching the music to even trying to wield the steering wheel with one hand so you can eat a cheeseburger with the other, plenty of things other than the lure of the internet can make driving a more dangerous task than it ought to be.
“You can absolutely be distracted by things other than a phone,” Corwin-Rey confirms. “Anything that means you aren’t solely concentrated on driving counts as distraction.”
So what are a few tips for becoming a more careful driver? To start with, resolve to do nothing else in the car that could hinder your attention, such as putting on lipstick or snacking while cruising. Corwin-Rey also suggests putting mobile phones in the backseat where you aren’t tempted to reach them. And, of course, being an exceptional driver means paying careful attention to your surroundings, leaving fewer chances to do anything else.
“Accidents happen less often in European countries where they drive faster, because there is no choice but to pay attention,” Corwin-Rey shares, adding that habits like consistently driving in the right lane except while passing or using a turn signal can help us pay more attention.
Naturally, better driving affects other areas of our lives in a positive way. Not only will you feel calmer and less frazzled on a daily basis, it creates a healthy boundary between you and other people who desire your time and attention – quite important in today’s overly connected world.
“Truly, when I learned to drive, there were no cell phones, and when I got to my destination, I learned what someone needed to tell me either in person, or over a regular phone on a desk,” Corwin-Rey points out. “Nothing is that important that it can’t wait.”
Then there’s the positive effect on your bills. Being a careful, defensive driver is handsomely rewarded by car insurance companies.
“Getting into a car accident raises your insurance premiums; that’s a fact,” Corwin-Rey points out. “The best rates with any insurance company are for drivers with no prior accidents or tickets. Some companies have accident forgiveness, as we do, which means the company will not increase your premiums if you get in an accident. But statistically speaking, based on accidents and tickets, insurance premiums could definitely increase if you have one or more. Changing the way you drive, and being more mindful of distractions is most importantly safer for you and those in your vehicle, as well as others on the road. “
To maintain lower premiums, pay attention and remain alert behind the wheel.
If you’re interested in reviewing your current insurance or shopping for new insurance, contact Renee Corwin-Rey and other qualified agents at Corwin-Rey Insurance. Visit FarmersAgent.com/RCorwinRey or call (360) 414-8754 to get started.
