When it comes to keeping you safe behind the wheel, nothing works harder than your brakes. They’re your car’s first line of defense against accidents, yet most drivers don’t think about them until something goes wrong—a squeak, a grind, or that sinking feeling when the pedal doesn’t respond like it should.
The good news? You don’t need to be a car expert to understand how brakes work or how to spot trouble before it turns into a safety issue. With a little knowledge, you can keep your brakes in top shape and give yourself peace of mind every time you drive.
How Do Brakes Actually Work?
At their core, brakes use one simple idea: friction. When you press your foot on the brake pedal, you’re triggering a hydraulic system—a system powered by fluid—that pushes brake pads or brake shoes against a spinning surface attached to your wheels. That pressure and friction are what slow your car down.
Think of it like riding a bicycle. When you squeeze the hand brakes, the pads press against the rim of the wheel, creating friction that makes the bike stop. Your car brakes work on the same principle, just on a larger and more powerful scale.
Most modern cars also have power-assisted brakes, which make it easier for you to press down, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS), which prevents the wheels from locking up during sudden stops. That keeps your car more stable and easier to steer in an emergency.
Disc vs. Drum: The Two Main Types of Brakes
Most vehicles on the road today use a hydraulic braking system with either disc brakes, drum brakes, or a combination of both.
Disc Brakes: These are the most common, especially on the front wheels (which handle most of the stopping power). A spinning disc, called a rotor, is clamped by a caliper holding brake pads. When you press the brake pedal, the pads squeeze the rotor, creating friction to slow the wheel.
Drum Brakes: These are more often found on rear wheels. Inside the brake drum, brake shoes are pressed outward by pistons when you hit the brakes, rubbing against the drum to slow the car.
You don’t need to memorize the mechanics, but it helps to know that both systems rely on brake fluid, pads or shoes, and the principle of friction to get the job done.
Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Attention
Brakes give you plenty of signals before they fail completely. The key is to notice them early:
Strange Noises: A squeal often means your brake pads are wearing thin. A grinding sound could mean the pads are worn down completely, with metal scraping against metal.
Soft or Spongy Pedal: If the brake pedal sinks toward the floor or feels unusually soft, it may signal a leak in the brake system or air in the brake lines.
Car Pulling to One Side When Braking: If your vehicle veers left or right when braking, it could be uneven brake wear, contaminated fluid, or a problem with the brake linings.
Dashboard Warning Lights: Don’t ignore that glowing brake light. It’s your car’s way of asking for help.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a brake check before things get worse.
Simple Brake Maintenance Tips
You don’t need to be a mechanic to stay on top of basic brake care. A little attention can go a long way toward preventing costly repairs and keeping you safe. Here are some practical steps:
Check Brake Pads: Brake pads wear down over time. If they’re less than ¼ inch thick, it’s time to replace them. Worn pads reduce your stopping power and can damage other parts of the braking system.
Watch for Grease or Debris: Brake pads should be clean and dry. Grease or oil on them can reduce friction, making it harder to stop.
Brake Fluid: Your mechanic should check the level and condition of your brake fluid regularly. Fresh brake fluid is clear or light in color. Dark or dirty fluid should be replaced.
Rotors and Drums: Look for signs of grooves, cracks, or warping. Depending on the severity, they may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
Brake Lines: Over time, brake lines can develop leaks from corrosion or damage. Any leak in the system reduces braking power and must be fixed immediately.
A good rule of thumb is to have your brakes inspected at least once a year—or sooner if you notice any changes in how they feel or sound. The cost of regular maintenance is small compared to the expense (and stress) of major repairs, not to mention the potential consequences of an accident.
Brakes may not be the flashiest part of your car, but they’re among the most important. Knowing how they work, spotting warning signs early, and keeping up with maintenance can give you confidence on the road and keep you—and your passengers—safe.
Of course, even the best brakes can’t prevent every unexpected situation. That’s where the right insurance comes in. Just as your brakes protect you in the moment, good coverage protects you afterward—helping you recover from accidents, repairs, or losses. Together, brake care and the right insurance give you the peace of mind to enjoy the drive, knowing you’re fully protected.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
When temperatures soar, staying cool isn’t just a comfort—it’s a matter of safety. For law enforcement officers and first responders, the summer heat adds another layer of challenge to already demanding duties. Whether directing traffic under the blazing sun or responding to emergencies in heavy gear, heat stress can sneak up fast. Here are some smart, practical strategies to help you keep your cool.
Suit Up for the Season
Your uniform is your armor, but under the summer sun, it can turn into a sauna. Choosing the right gear can make a huge difference in staying cool.
Go Light and Breathable: If your department permits, opt for summer uniforms made from lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like mesh, rayon, cotton, or lightweight polyester. These fabrics help sweat evaporate quickly, keeping your body temperature in check.
Add Cool Extras: Cooling vests, neck wraps, and other personal cooling gear can provide extra relief on scorching days—just make sure they’re approved by your department.
Bike & Traffic Patrol Tips: Tactical shorts and ANSI-certified high-visibility polos keep you mobile, visible, and comfortable.
Head-to-Toe Comfort: Swap out heavy hats for breathable, UV-protective caps—department approved of course. Choose moisture-wicking socks—many of which include anti-odor features—to keep your feet dry and blister-free.
Pro Tip: Wear your ballistic vest on the outside. In summer, it’s better to skip layering over it. Outer vest carriers offer protection and breathability—without sacrificing your uniformed look.
Hydrate for the Long Haul
When you’re in the sun for hours, even mild dehydration can take a toll. Drink early and often.
Water Is #1: Drink before, during, and after your shift. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
Try Coconut Water: It’s a great natural source of potassium and electrolytes.
Skip These: Caffeinated drinks, sodas, energy drinks, and alcohol all dehydrate you. Caffeine constricts blood vessels and acts as a diuretic, while alcohol sets you up for a rough shift the next day.
Eat to Beat the Heat
It takes a lot of energy for our bodies to digest a steak dinner. When our body breaks down protein, it creates heat. Don’t let heavy meals weigh you down. Aim for lighter, heat-friendly meals and snacks leading up to and during your shift.
Choose Hydrating Snacks: Watermelon, peaches, apricots, and radishes are great choices.
Select Leafy Greens: They’re loaded with water and easy on your system.
Enjoy Smart Fuel: Choose lean proteins and whole grains to keep energy up without overheating your body’s digestive system.
Don’t Forget Sunscreen, Bug Spray & Other Essentials
It’s not just the heat. Make sure you protect your skin from damaging rays and uncomfortable, itchy bites.
Slather the Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ generously and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating.
Bring the Bug Spray: This is essential if your beat includes grassy or wooded areas. Mosquito bites are more than just an annoyance.
Take Towels in the Cruiser: Keep a stash of clean towels to wipe off sweat and help you cool down quickly. Try a cooling towel; it will absorb your sweat and create a cooling effect.
Know When to Rest
Recovery is just as important as readiness. Smart breaks can keep you from overheating and reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
Take Breaks: When possible, rest in the shade or an air-conditioned vehicle. Short pauses throughout your shift can help regulate body temperature and maintain focus.
Watch for Warning Signs: Learn to recognize early symptoms of heat stress—like dizziness, nausea, or confusion—and act quickly if they appear.
Use the Buddy System: Keep an eye on your partner—and yourself—for signs of heat exhaustion.
Have a Heat Emergency Plan: Know what to do if you or a colleague begins to show symptoms. This goes for K-9 partners, too!
Know the Warning Signs
Heat illness can escalate quickly—from cramps to exhaustion to life-threatening heat stroke. Be alert for these symptoms:
Signs of Heat Stroke:
Body temperature above 103°F
Dizziness or disorientation
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Hot, red, dry skin
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion
If you or a partner exhibit any of these, take immediate action:
Get to a cool area
Remove excess gear
Apply cold compresses or ice packs to the forearms, neck, or groin
Seek medical help immediately
As law enforcement officers and first responders, you face challenges every day—especially when the heat is on. That’s why we’re proud to protect the heroes who protect all of us. From custom insurance coverage to exceptional service tailored to law enforcement professionals, we’ve got your back—on duty and off.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Summer is here, and our four-legged friends are ready to make the most of it—soaking up the sun, chasing butterflies, and joining us for backyard barbecues and beach days. But while the season is packed with tail-wagging fun, it also brings a few hidden hazards that can sneak up on even the most watchful pet parents. From sizzling sidewalks to tempting picnic snacks, summertime can be trickier than it looks. Here’s how to keep your fur babies safe, healthy, and ready for all the warm-weather adventures ahead!
Barbecues, Picnics, and Parties
Nothing says summer like a backyard cookout—but it’s not always a pet-friendly affair. Popular BBQ foods like rib bones, corn on the cob, and watermelon rinds may seem harmless but can cause serious health issues, including choking and intestinal blockages. Onions, grapes, and alcohol are outright toxic to pets, and treats like ice cream and potato salad can upset sensitive stomachs. Also be mindful of wooden skewers and toothpicks, which can splinter and cause internal injuries if chewed or swallowed.
Remind your guests not to share their food with your pet. Instead offer pet-safe treats as an alternative. Supervise your furry friend closely, especially if they’re known for getting into mischief—or are particularly sociable.
Lawn and Pool Chemicals
Beautiful lawns and sparkling pools can hide serious dangers. Fertilizers, pesticides, and pool chemicals are harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through your pet’s paws. Always store chemicals securely, clean up spills right away, and keep pets off freshly treated grass. When possible, choose pet-safe products that reduce the risk while still maintaining your outdoor space.
Dangerous Plants
Gardening this summer? Be sure your landscaping isn’t a hidden health hazard. Azaleas, lilies, rhododendrons, tulips, and daffodils are just a few of the plants that can be toxic to pets. Ingesting them can lead to vomiting, seizures, heart issues, and even death. Before heading out on a walk or letting your pet explore the garden, brush up on which plants are safe. (Check out our pets and plants blog for a detailed guide.)
Itchy and Stinging Insects
Summer means bugs—and lots of them. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos can make your pet miserable and may carry dangerous diseases like heartworm and Lyme disease. Bees, wasps, and fire ants also pose risks, especially to curious pets who like to sniff and paw at anything that moves.
To protect your pet:
Use flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives
Check daily for ticks, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas.
Eliminate standing water and trim overgrown plants to deter pests.
Monitor your pet for signs of bites or stings, such as swelling, excessive scratching, or difficulty breathing. In the case of a severe allergic reaction, seek veterinary help immediately.
Heat and Humidity
High temperatures and humidity can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, especially for older pets, overweight pets, or breeds with short snouts like pugs and bulldogs. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, and dry gums (a sign of dehydration). Your pet also may appear lethargic.
Always provide shade and fresh water and avoid intense activity during the hottest parts of the day. Never leave your pet in a parked car—not even for a few minutes. On a 75-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle can soar to 100 degrees in just 30 minutes.
Also, be cautious of hot pavement and sand. Use the hand test: place your hand on the sidewalk for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws. And don’t forget about sunburn! Pets can get burned too—especially on ears, noses, and bellies. Use pet-safe sunscreen, never human sunscreen, to protect exposed areas.
The Beach and the Pool
Many dogs love the beach, but it can come with unexpected dangers. Hot sand can burn sensitive paw pads, and ingesting sand can lead to a dangerous bowel obstruction. Sand can also irritate your pet’s eyes if it gets lodged under their eyelids.
As for water safety, not all dogs are natural swimmers. Never force your pet into the water, and always use a pet lifejacket, especially if you’re on a boat or near deep water. After a swim, rinse your dog off to remove salt or chlorine.
Fireworks and Thunderstorms
The loud booms of summer storms and fireworks can terrify pets, causing stress, anxiety, or even escape attempts. Prepare a safe, quiet space indoors where your pet can retreat. You can also try anxiety wraps, pet pheromone sprays, and soft music or white noise. For severe anxiety, talk to your vet about possible calming medications. And always secure doors, gates, and windows in case your pet tries to bolt.
Traveling with Your Pet
Planning a road trip with your fur baby? Keep your pet secured in a well-ventilated carrier or use a pet seatbelt harness. Never leave them unattended in a parked vehicle. Bring along water, treats, and poop bags, and schedule regular breaks.
Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing ID tags with up-to-date contact info—just in case you get separated. If you’re flying, be sure to review your airline’s pet policy or check out our blog on flying with pets for extra tips.
One More Layer of Protection
We love our pets and no matter how careful we are, accidents happen. Pet insurance can offer peace of mind, helping cover unexpected vet bills so you can focus on keeping your pet happy and healthy all summer long.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
When the rest of the world is winding down, you’re just gearing up—saving lives, keeping streets safe, answering calls, and making sure others get the care they need. Whether you’re a nurse on the night shift, a paramedic racing the clock, or a police officer patrolling quiet streets, late-night and long-shift driving comes with its own set of challenges. Fatigue, low visibility, and unpredictable road conditions can all put you at risk. That’s why staying alert—and staying safe—behind the wheel is just as important as the job you’re heading to.
The Reality of Night Shift Driving
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), night shift workers are three times as likely to be involved in drowsy driving crashes. Most of these accidents occur between midnight and 6 a.m.—the time when your body naturally wants to sleep due to your circadian rhythm (your internal biological clock). That’s why it’s essential to have a safety plan in place before you start your engine.
Even 15 to 30 minutes can make a difference. A quick rest can reduce sleepiness and give you a safer start to your drive.
Why It Works: A power nap (15–30 minutes) allows your brain to enter the early stages of non-REM sleep, reducing sleep pressure and boosting alertness without entering deep sleep, which can cause grogginess. It restores neurotransmitter balance and improves reaction time—essential for a safe drive home.
Move before you cruise.
Before you get into the car, try stretching or walking briskly to activate your body and brain.
Why It Works: Physical activity increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, boosting alertness by stimulating the release of norepinephrine and dopamine. Movement also raises core body temperature slightly, which can enhance wakefulness.
Skip the heavy meals and late caffeine.
Heavy meals can make you sluggish, and caffeine too close to bedtime can interfere with your post-shift rest. Save your sleep—and your stomach.
Why It Works: Heavy meals, especially those high in fats and carbs, divert blood flow to the digestive system, leading to a “food coma.” Meanwhile, caffeine has a half-life of about 5–7 hours, and late intake can block adenosine receptors, disrupting sleep cycles and impairing recovery.
Crunch it out.
Keep crunchy snacks like carrots, granola, or even ice handy as you drive. The chewing motion and texture engage your senses and help you stay alert.
Why It Works: The act of chewing stimulates the trigeminal nerve, increasing blood flow to the brain. Crunchy textures and repetitive motion provide sensory input that can help maintain alertness.
Phone a friend.
A conversation can stimulate your brain and help keep you focused. Bonus: it’s a great way to stay connected during off-hours.
Why It Works: Talking with someone activates multiple brain regions including the prefrontal cortex, responsible for attention and decision-making. This kind of mental activity keeps your brain busy in a good way—making it less likely to fall into microsleep.
Get moving at red lights.
Take advantage of stoplights to stretch, drum on the steering wheel, or do a little seated dance. Getting your blood flowing helps you stay awake.
Why It Works: Even small physical movements can activate your nervous system, raise your heart rate, and help you feel less tired. These brief bursts of activity can break up long periods of sitting and help prevent drowsiness while driving.
Let the fresh air in.
Roll down the window or blast the A/C. A blast of cold air to the face can help jolt you awake.
Why It Works: Breathing in cold air wakes up your body by stimulating a nerve in your face and the part of your brain that keeps you alert. It works like a small jolt, triggering your body’s alert system.
Belt it out.
Sing along to your favorite tunes. It’s almost impossible to drift off while belting out a chorus.
Why It Works: Singing engages multiple brain centers (auditory, motor, and emotional), keeping your brain stimulated. It also makes you breathe deeply, which brings in more oxygen and helps fight off tiredness.
Buddy up.
If possible, carpool with a co-worker. Not only can you take turns driving, but you can also help keep each other alert. Bonus: Carpooling helps reduce your mileage.
Why It Works: Social interaction, shared attention, and the presence of another person can all heighten alertness through increased stimulation of the brain’s executive functions. Alternating drivers can also prevent over-fatigue, reducing the risk of micro-sleeps or delayed reaction times.
Know the Signs of Drowsy Driving
Don’t ignore the warning signs of drowsy driving. If you experience any of these, it’s time to pull over:
Frequent yawning
Difficulty keeping your eyes open
Nodding off
Drifting from your lane
Missing road signs or turns
Inconsistent speed
Trouble remembering the last few miles
If you’re too tired to drive, don’t push through. Pull over in a safe place and take a nap—even a short one can be lifesaving.
Planning for the Long Haul: Better Sleep for Safer Driving
While short-term tricks can help in the moment, long-term strategies are key for your well-being.
Set a consistent sleep schedule.
Even on your days off, try to stick to the same sleep-wake cycle. This helps train your internal clock and reduces grogginess.
Optimize your sleep environment.
Use blackout curtains, white noise machines, or eye masks to block out daylight and noise. Keep your room cool and tech-free.
Talk to your doctor if needed.
If you’re struggling to sleep despite your best efforts, you may have Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD). A healthcare professional can help you manage it effectively.
You’re the one that others count on—make sure you’re taking care of yourself, too. A few smart habits can help you stay safe behind the wheel and make it home to rest, recharge, and get ready to do it all again.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com
There’s nothing quite like prom and graduation season—the photos, the dresses and tuxes, the flowers, the celebrations. But while your teen may be focused on finding the perfect outfit or planning the after party, you’re likely thinking about something else entirely: their safety on the road.
Here are some tips to help your teen navigate prom, graduation, and all the celebrations in between—safely.
1. Make “leaving early” a habit.
Encourage your teen to leave at least 10 minutes earlier than needed—more if weather conditions are poor. This reduces the urge to speed and gives them time to react calmly to traffic or detours. If they’re heading to the same event as many others, they might also encounter fewer cars and pedestrians if they beat the rush.
2. Limit passengers.
It’s fun to pile into a car with friends, but the more people you have, the more distractions the driver encounters. Set limits on how many friends can ride with your teen and remind them that safety comes before socializing.
3. Always buckle up.
Seat belts are simple but lifesaving. Make sure your teen—and everyone in their car—buckles up before the engine starts. Reinforce the message that seat belts are non-negotiable, even for short trips.
4. Phones down, eyes up.
Phones are one of the biggest distractions for drivers, especially teens. Talk with your teen about putting their phone away while driving. There are apps that can silence notifications, send automatic replies, and even block texts while the car is in motion. Sharing their location with you is also a smart move in case you need to reach them in an emergency.
5. Minimize all distractions.
Texting isn’t the only distraction. Eating, drinking, adjusting the music, or checking makeup can all take attention off the road. Remind your teen to stay focused and wait until they’re parked to multitask.
6. Don’t drive while drowsy.
With finals, late-night celebrations, and packed schedules, your teen may not be getting enough sleep. Driving tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. If they feel themselves nodding off, they should pull over in a safe place and rest before continuing.
7. No drinking and driving—ever.
This one may seem obvious, but it bears repeating. Teens should never get behind the wheel after drinking or using any substance. Have an open conversation about peer pressure and agree on a “safe word” they can use if they need you to pick them up—no questions asked.
8. Keep an emergency kit in the car.
Whether it’s a flat tire, dead battery, or a minor fender bender, your teen should know what to do in case of a car emergency. Pack a basic kit with a flashlight, jumper cables, water, a first-aid kit, and emergency contact numbers. Make sure they know how to use everything in it. Teach your teen basic vehicle care and warning signs.
9. Be accident-ready, just in case.
Teens are often accident-prone because of their inexperience behind the wheel. Make sure your teen knows what to do if they’re ever in a crash. Go over the basics together: stay calm, check for injuries, move to safety, call 911, and exchange information with the other driver. Keeping an emergency kit in the car and insurance details in the glove box can also help them feel more prepared and confident.
10. Set a curfew.
More than 40% of fatal crashes involving young drivers happen between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. It’s not just the challenge of driving in the dark—late-night trips are often social outings where distractions and peer pressure can run high. Even rule-following teens can be tempted to take risks. Setting an earlier curfew than your state requires can help keep your teen safer. Bonus: Offer to drive them and pick them up for late night outings.
11. Control the keys.
When teens have to ask for the car, it naturally opens the door for conversation. It’s a built-in pause that gives parents a moment to check in—about where they’re headed, who they’ll be with, and when they plan to return. It’s also a subtle reminder that driving is a privilege, not a right, and that responsibility comes with it. Keeping the keys in your hands helps reinforce expectations and encourages accountability.
12. Monitor risky behavior.
Consider a monitoring device or app that can track risky behaviors such as speeding, abrupt acceleration and sudden braking. You can also keep tabs on your teen’s location with GPS tracking. Some systems have a silent alarm so your teen can signal SOS if they feel unsafe.
Finally, this is a good time to review your insurance. Is your teen properly covered? Have you discussed all the ways you can save with a teen driver? Ensuring your policy is up to date can give both of you peace of mind during this high-risk season.
Prom and graduation are once-in-a-lifetime milestones, and you want your teen to enjoy them to the fullest—safely. Start the conversation early, model safe driving behavior yourself, and let them know you’re always just a phone call away. Your guidance and trust go a long way in helping them make smart decisions behind the wheel.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
We’ve all seen it—or maybe even been guilty of it ourselves. A quick glance at a text, adjusting the GPS, or sipping that morning coffee behind the wheel. Distracted driving is a dangerous habit that can have devastating consequences. But what exactly is distracted driving, and how can we break the cycle?
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from the road. It’s often associated with texting or talking on the phone, but it also includes:
Eating or drinking
Adjusting the radio or GPS
Using electronic gadgets
Personal grooming
Tending to Rover or Kitty
Daydreaming or zoning out
Distractions come in three forms:
Visual – Taking your eyes off the road
Physical – Taking one or both hands off the wheel
Cognitive – Mental distractions that shift your focus away from driving
Manydistracted drivinghabits involve one or more of these forms, but using a cell phone or electronic device is especially dangerous because it engages all three at once.
The Science Behind Distracted Driving
Driving demands our full attention, yet many of us still text, call, or use electronic devices behind the wheel. Why do we do it, even when we know it’s dangerous? One reason is that our brains crave the small dopamine boost we get from checking messages—almost like a drug, it can override our sense of risk. We may also feel pressure to respond quickly to work or friends. And often, we overestimate our ability to multitask, believing we can manage both driving and distractions.
However, the reality is that multitasking behind the wheel is dangerous. Studies show that even hands-free phone use can cause “inattentional blindness,” where drivers fail to notice crucial details like stop signs or pedestrians. Distracted driving significantly delays your reaction time.
When attention is split, the brain struggles to process different tasks efficiently, increasing the risk of an accident. Staying fully present while driving isn’t just a good habit—it’s a necessity.
The Impact: Alarming Statistics
Research suggests that sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds—long enough to travel the length of a football field at highway speeds. That’s a terrifying thought. Think of what could happen while driving that distance at that speed if you’re not paying attention.
More statistics paint a grim picture of distracted driving’s consequences:
In 2022, over3,300 peoplein the U.S. lost their lives and nearly 290,000 people were injured in crashes involving distracted drivers.
About 1 in 5 people killed in these crashes were not in vehicles—they were pedestrians, cyclists, or bystanders.
Texting while driving increases yourcrashrisk by23 timescompared to driving undistracted. It can double or even triple your reaction time.
Talking on the phone increases risk of a crash by4 to 6 times.
These statistics are sobering, but the good news is that distracted driving is preventable.
Laws to Keep Drivers Safe
Today’s cell phones and electronic devices allow us to scroll through social media, watch videos, stream music, take photos, and more. That increases our chances to be allured by distracted driving. To combat thisgrowing problem, many states have implemented strict laws, particularly against electronic devices. These include:
Hands-free laws – Requiring drivers to use voice commands or Bluetooth systems
Teen driver restrictions – Limiting phone use foryoung drivers, who are at higher risk
Currently 16 states ban drivers from holding electronic devices. There are 34 states and DC that banteensfrom electronic device use, including hands-free use. Fines and penalties for violations are becoming more severe, reinforcing the message that distracted driving is not worth the risk.
How to Break the Habit
Stopping distracted driving starts with personal responsibility. You can take the steps needed to break the habit. Here are some strategies that can help you to stay focused behind the wheel:
Put your phone away. Keep it in the glove compartment or enable “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving or try one of the many safe driving apps available to minimize distractions. Some apps even “pay” you to drive with your phone locked down. You earn points toward discounts and coupons.
Plan ahead. Set your GPS, load your playlist, and adjust climate controls before you start driving. Make sure your children and pets are securely seated for the ride.
Designate a “co-pilot.” Let them adjust audio, GPS or other settings for you. You can ask them to respond to texts as needed.
Use voice commands. If you must take a phone call, use a hands-free system.
Pull over if needed. If something requires your full attention, find a safe place to stop.
Suggest a distracted driving policy for work. Talk to your employer about setting a policy that allows work calls or texts to wait until you are safely parked.
Avoid reaching. If something falls while driving, don’t reach for it. Either ask a passenger to do so, wait until you’re parked to get it, or pull over safely before you reach.
Model good behavior. Your passengers are noticing, and so are your kids. Teen drivers ofteninherittheir parents’ driving habits. Remind them, and yourself, why you are doing this. Take theNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration Pledgeto reinforce your commitment.
Distracted driving is a preventable danger. By understanding the risks, following thelaws, and making a conscious effort to stay focused, we can all do our part to keep the roads safer. Breaking the habit starts with a single decision—choosing to prioritize safety over distractions. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
