At any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or electronic devices while driving, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. When you’re behind the wheel of a car – whether alone or with passengers – driving safely should always be your top concern. We’re more distracted than ever, so it’s crucial to know the basics of safe driving and practice them every time you’re on the road. 

Be a safe driver! 

• Don't allow children to fight or climb around in your car – they should be buckled in their seats at all times. Too much noise can easily distract you from focusing on the road. 
• Avoid driving when you're tired. Be aware some medications cause drowsiness and make operating a vehicle very dangerous. 
• Always use caution when changing lanes. Cutting in front of someone, changing lanes too fast or not using your signals may cause an accident or upset other drivers
• Don’t be a hostile driver, road rage never accomplishes anything but potential disaster.

As the weather warms up in the coming months more of us will be taking road trips for vacations, family outings or visiting friends and relatives. Don’t let the excitement of your trip to keep you from driving safely. Be a defensive driver by using accident-preventing techniques with a focus on driving safely.