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Most slip-ups in driving result from lapses of attention, whether
caused by distractions, anger, substance abuse, aggressiveness, fatigue,
anxiety, impatience or just lack of focus. Whatever the reason, anything
that takes your mind off driving, reduces your ability to respond,
increases your chances of crashing. 

- Things outside of the vehicle - 29%
- Adjusting radio/CD - 11%
- Other occupants - 11%
- Moving objects inside the vehicle - 4%
- Adjusting vehicle controls - 3%
- Eating or Drinking - 2%
- Using a cellular phone - 1.5%
- Other distractions - 25%

- Drive defensively - be prepared for poor driving conditions. Expect
the unexpected.
- Check your route before departing - if you are unfamiliar with
where you are going, get directions or check maps before you are
on the road.
- Make sure child passengers are comfortable & poperly buckled up
before hitting the road.
- Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road at all
times.
- Place any calls before you drive - prior to leaving the parking
lot, home, office, etc...
- Check with your pharmacist regarding your medications - some over-the-counter
&/or perscription drugs may cause drowsiness or affect your reactions.
- Be familiar with the equipment in your vehicle - control switches,
radio, stereo. This is especially important if you are driving a
rental/loaner vehicle.
- Complete your grooming before you get in your vehicle.
- Try to avoid eating or drinking while driving - children or adults
may choke on food while the vehicle is in motion causing a severe
distraction.

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