In today’s fast-paced world, multitasking has become a common practice for many individuals, including drivers. However, seemingly harmless everyday habits can significantly jeopardize both their own safety and that of others on the road. „Avis,“ a provider of car rental and full-service leasing services, has compiled a list of common habits that drivers should avoid while behind the wheel.
„Eliminating dangerous daily habits behind the wheel would not only improve overall road safety but also enhance driving culture. Recent data shows that more than half of Latvia’s population believes that driving culture is the main cause of risks on the roads. It is valuable for everyone to analyze their driving style, habits, and behavior in various traffic situations,“ says Roberts Kovaļevskis, the head of the leasing department at „Avis.“
### Drinking Hot Beverages
As the cold weather approaches, the desire for a warm cup of tea or coffee increases. However, consuming hot beverages while driving is dangerous. In the event of sudden braking, the drink may spill on clothing or skin, posing a scalding risk. Holding a cup also limits the driver’s ability to react quickly and perform full steering maneuvers. It is safest to enjoy drinks before or after the drive.
### Eating Meals
A surprising 24% of Latvian drivers eat while driving, despite the fact that holding meals at the wheel is not only challenging but also dangerous. Instead of focusing on the road, the driver tries not to mess up the car interior or themselves. Moreover, holding food in one hand reduces maneuvering capabilities. For longer journeys, it is best to plan rest stops to eat and stretch.
### Connecting a Smartphone to the Car
The method of connecting a smartphone to a car depends on its configuration and equipment. However, both connecting, activating navigation, and selecting music should be done before starting the journey. Even innocently changing a song can lead to a dangerous situation on the road, not to mention prolonged settings adjustments. Some older car models require the use of an „Aux“ cable for smartphone connection to the car’s audio system before driving. Modern cars automatically connect to the phone after starting the vehicle. When switching to a different car, the connection must be re-established. Some cars cannot be connected to mobile devices while in motion, ensuring the driver’s safety.
### Participating in Online Meetings
Even if hands-free systems are used for online meetings, such conversations divert the driver’s attention from the road. Occasionally looking at the camera, focusing on what is being said, and possibly feeling stressed can distract from driving. While initially seeming like a great way to save time, combining driving with work is risky. If a meeting is planned during the drive, it is best to stop at the nearest possible location and continue the journey only after the meeting ends.
### Avoiding Red Light Distractions
During a red light, drivers often try to perform various seemingly short and harmless actions, such as applying makeup, taking selfies, or responding to messages. These distractions reduce focus, slow down traffic, and create dangerous situations.
### About „Avis“
„Avis,“ a provider of car rental and full-service leasing services, has been operating in Latvia for 30 years and is one of the largest market players, offering both short-term and long-term car rental and leasing services for various customer needs. With over 11,000 car rental locations worldwide and a range of car and minibus rental and leasing solutions, the company serves both corporate and private clients.
By being aware of and avoiding these common habits while driving, individuals can contribute to improving road safety and fostering a better driving culture. It is essential to prioritize safety and focus on the road to ensure a safe and pleasant driving experience for everyone.