Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving in Louisiana

In today’s always-on world, we’re under pressure to stay connected to family, friends, and coworkers. But when you combine that with how much time we spend behind the wheel, that connection becomes a serious safety hazard.

According to the American Driving Survey by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the average U.S. driver spends 60.7 minutes on the road each day, which is over an hour of potential distractions.

Anything you do behind the wheel that isn’t driving is considered distracted driving, and it greatly increases your risk of a car accident.

Why Distracted Driving Is So Dangerous

The problem is so widespread that April is now recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• 3,275 lives were lost in 2023 due to distracted drivers
  
• That’s 8% of all fatal crashes last year
  
• Every day, around 9 people die in distracted driving accidents
  
• Looking away for 5 seconds at 55 mph = driving a football field blindfolded
  
• 2 seconds is the max you can safely look away from the road

What can you do to keep yourself, your passengers, and your fellow drivers safe on your drive? The car accident injury lawyers at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys have compiled this list of the top 5 ways to avoid distracted driving.

1. Stow Your Phone

In Louisiana (and most states), it’s illegal to text, scroll, or even touch your phone while driving, especially for minors. And if you’re caught texting and then in an accident? The penalties skyrocket.

Distracted driving laws exist for a reason. Even hands-free features can leave you mentally distracted for up to 27 seconds after use (thanks, AAA). That’s more than enough time to make a dangerous mistake.

The fix to prevent texting while driving? Make your phone less tempting:

• Toss it in the glove box or door pocket
  
• Flip it to airplane mode
  
• Mute those notifications
  
• Use “Do Not Disturb While Driving”
  

Texting and driving kill thousands every year. Don’t become part of that tragic statistic. A small choice can save a life, maybe even yours.

2. Don’t Be a Distraction

You might not be driving, but you still play a role in road safety. Even from home or the office, you can help avoid distracted driving in Louisiana.

• Think twice before sending that text or call.
  • If you know someone’s driving, hit pause. That message or “Where are you?” can wait. Distracted driving accidents often start with good intentions.
• Be the reason they stay focused.
  • Wait until you’re fairly sure they’ve parked before reaching out. It’s a small gesture that could make a big difference.

It’s not just drivers who need to stay alert—it’s all of us.

3. Prepare before you drive

Whether it’s a long road trip or a quick drive, getting everything ready before you start is a simple way to avoid distractions.

It’s easy to get uncomfortable mid-drive or feel tempted to change the playlist, adjust the seat, or reach for something. That’s how distracted driving happens.

As part of following the best safe driving tips in Louisiana, take a moment before hitting the road to:

• Pull up directions on your GPS
  
• Queue your playlist, CD, or podcast
  
• Adjust your seat, mirrors, and steering wheel
  
• Secure belongings and any children
  
•  Make sure everyone’s buckled up
  

These quick steps help you stay focused and safe from the moment your wheels start moving.

4. Don’t Eat and Drive

We all spend a lot of time in our cars, and yeah, it’s tempting to snack behind the wheel. But eating while driving is a serious distraction, even if you think you’re being careful.

The truth is, you’re often taking one or both hands off the wheel and glancing down more than you realize, whether it’s a burger, salad, or quick snack.

If you’re hungry on the road, pull over and eat safely. Remember, distracted driving doesn’t just mean texting; it includes drive-thru meals too.

Want to reduce distracted driving? Start by making this small change: Stay focused. Eat when parked. Your safety’s worth the pause.

5. Never Drive Drowsy

Over 100,000 crashes each year involve drowsy driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And studies show that being sleepy can impair you just as much, or even more, than driving drunk.

If you catch yourself nodding off or zoning out, do the safe thing: pull over and rest. Even a quick nap can make a big difference.

Among the most important Louisiana road safety tips is this: never underestimate the danger of driving tired.

Driving while drowsy puts lives at risk. Your destination will still be there when you wake up—your safety is what matters most.

What to Do If You’re the Victim of a Distracted Driver

If you’ve been in a distracted driving accident in Louisiana, you may be entitled to compensation. These crashes often involve truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and more, and anyone can drive distracted, even truckers.

With so many miles driven each year in Louisiana, the risk is real. That’s why distracted driving awareness in Louisiana is more important than ever. But getting the compensation you deserve isn’t always easy.

That’s why you need someone in your corner. A skilled personal injury lawyer from the Get Gordon team can help by:

• Gathering evidence
  
• Handling paperwork
  
• Fighting for you in court, if needed
  

While we handle the legal side, you focus on recovering. Call Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys anytime at 888.861.2755 for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the justice you deserve.