Clinic byte: Distracted Driving
Source/Author: Marie Confident, School Nurse
September 10, 2015
Thanks to our ever-expanding technology, it is easy and convenient for us to be able to do almost anything while on the go. We all have witnessed people using their cell phones to text, talk or do other activities while driving. We may be guilty ourselves of doing so ourselves. Is it worth it? Some may think that it is okay, but for those whose lives have been torn apart by a distracted driver’s car crash, it is absolutely devastating - especially due to the fact that it is 100% preventable.
Listening to the radio, eating, or talking with a passenger in your car while driving seem to be innocent enough, but can cause you, the driver, to be distracted. Imagine how much more distracting to your brain texting or emailing can be while driving?! I have family members who lost their lives due to distracted driving, but no one can paint a clearer picture of the hurt caused by distracted driving than a parent forever mourning the loss of a child. Mr. Feldman was a guest speaker this week for parents and Shorecrest Upper School students educating about ending distracted driving.
According to the National Safety Council, 1 in 4 car crashes involves cell phones. The physical, emotional, financial and legal burdens that a few seconds on your cell phone may cause are not worth it. Wearing seat belts, driving at the speed limit, following driving laws, not texting or talking on your cell while driving, and not driving impaired are all ways that parents set good examples for their children. Having a written, signed agreement with your teen about your rules and expectations (to include the behaviors you model plus situations specific to teens - like no loud music, no driving with friends until after 6 months or a year of driving experience, no driving after 11 pm etc.) concerning driving privileges will help decrease the risks of distracted driving and its potential harm. Visit http://driveithome.org/ for additional resources for parents and teens.
Until next time, let’s keep our eyes on the road and hands on the wheel and be safe.
Marie Confident, RN, BSN
Shorecrest School Nurse
