It's the most wonderful time of the year!
No, no, not Christmas. It's the time when you get to spend all those precious summer days with your kids! You know, those days that you'll never get back, the memories you'll cherish forever, the good times... ah, let's face it: You've made plenty of memories this summer with those children already. It's already August, for cryin' out loud, and it's about time they went back to school.
Well, in just a few weeks you'll get your wish, but until that time, don't let those stress levels elevate beyond your control - especially when you get behind the wheel.
Given all that parents have to deal with during the summer break, it's no secret that the 100 days after Memorial Day are known as the "100 deadliest days of summer." Distracted driving peaks in the summer, in part because of the chaos kids bring along during the ride, and you can be left vulnerable if you aren't extra careful on the road.
The truth is, people drive roughly 20 percent more during the summer than during other months, giving way to an astonishing 29 percent more driving fatalities during these months than around the holidays. Whether you're actively distracted by texting or talking on the phone, or passively distracted by listening to music or directions or even your kids, there is no doubt that distractions are at an all-time high when the sun's-a-scorchin' and the kids're-a-screamin'.
Here are a few tips on how you can handle these sorts of stressors during the summer months:
Put down the cell phone
If you're going to listen to music, let your phone shuffle those songs for you. If you need to know where you're going, plug in those directions and get a general understanding of where you're going before you leave so you don't need to divert your attention from the road. Oh, and never, ever text and drive, especially if you have kids with you in the car. Whatever seems so critical isn't a fraction as important as the safety of you and your children, so use common sense and be responsible.
Ignore your kids
It may seem an impossible task, especially during the midst of a heated tantrum, but giving credence to their fits is a sure-fire way to put yourself in serious danger. Instead of trying to entertain them yourself, give them other ways to occupy time, such as:
- In-car movies or gaming devices
- Toys (preferably toys that cannot be hurled your way in a fit of rage)
- Another adult to keep them busy
Avoid busy roads
It's obvious that busier roads lead to more accidents, but it is also often true that busier roads lead to higher stress levels. As a parent transporting children, the chances are that your stress levels may already be higher than usual, so fueling that fire might not be the best idea.
Always be scanning
Remember, you aren't the only person with children on summer break. Other parents are out walking with their kids, taking them on bike rides, and playing in the yards or driveways. By making it a point to take in your surroundings, you can ensure the safety of both your children and the children of others.
Summer can be an exciting time for you and your family, one filled with joyous memories to last a lifetime. On the other hand, it can be stressful and distracting, especially as parents enter the final few weeks of a child's break.
However anxious you may be, remember that your child's life rests in your hands, a fact that couldn't be truer than when you're behind the wheel. Stay calm, stay vigilant, and stay focused on what matters as you drive.
Sinclair Broadcast Group is committed to keeping our viewers accident-free, which is why we initiated the Drive Safe campaign. Steer clear of danger with our monthly tips.
