Don’t drive distracted

The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. NSC urges drivers to put their cellphone down and focus on the road ahead.

“Drivers using cellphones are four times more likely to crash, and hands-free phone use offers no safety benefit,” the council says.

Be a focused driver.

What’s that? NSC says a focused driver:

• Adjusts vehicle controls such as mirrors, seat, radio and air temperature before driving.
• Programs the GPS before leaving.
• Plans ahead – determines routes as well as checks directions and traffic conditions before departing.
• Doesn’t multitask behind the wheel.
• Doesn’t talk on a cellphone – even hands-free – or interact with the vehicle’s infotainment system.
• Doesn’t reach down or behind the seat, pick up items from the floor, or clean the inside of the window while driving.
• Doesn’t eat or drink while behind the wheel.