Have you looked at the statistics for distracted driving? They’re quite sobering. Distraction is a causal factor in 9% of fatal crashes. Among other things that grab your attention, cell phone use accounts for 1.6 million vehicle crashes per year, with 390,000 injuries caused by texting drivers. Simply stated, one of every four car crashes in our country is caused by texting while driving. Are you one of those four? We hope not, and we certainly hope that you aren’t the innocent victim of a texting driver. At Motorcars International in Smyrna, Georgia, our customers matter to us. One life taken as a result of distracted driving is one life too many.

Most Common Driving Distractions

Anything that takes your full attention away from the mental and physical tasks of driving is a distraction, even if it’s not on purpose or not for a negative reason. In fact, there are so many potential competitors for your attention that distractions are divided into three broad categories–visual (causing you to look away from the road), manual (causing you to take your hands off the wheel), and cognitive (causing you to think about something other than driving). Some of the most common specific causes are passenger interactions (conversations, arguments, looking at facial expressions, and handing items), cellphones (texting, talking, holding the phone, and other interactions such as finding directions or music), smoking, eating, “party in the car” singing and dancing–even if you’re alone, adjusting the heat/AC or radio, and holding something or reaching for loose objects. Although not all of these are “bad” activities or intentional neglect of driving duties, it doesn’t make them any less risky or deadly. There are, however, steps you can take to minimize danger. For example, you can use a cell phone app to prevent notifications or simply turn off your phone. If you need directions, set the GPS before you begin moving. Likewise, eat before you travel, and stop to take a rest break if you become sleepy. In addition to ensuring that children are secured in proper seats and restraints, make sure they have what they want or need within their grasp so that you’re not reaching and handing when your focus should be on the road. In general, be mindful that your mind is where it should be.

Customer Care

At Motorcars International in Smyrna, Georgia, we put a lot into auto service and repair–up-to-date technician certifications, state-of-the-art-equipment, and a great warranty. We also offer a wide range of services and conveniences, including a free loaner car while your vehicle is in our shop. None of this matters, however, if you can’t arrive alive and unharmed at our facility. Thus, there’s nothing we care about more than you. Please drive safely!