3 Things You Can Do When You See Someone Driving Badly Because They Are Distracted by Their Phone
It is unfortunate that we often see a lot of people driving their vehicle while using their mobile phone at the same time. Not only is this foolish but also illegal because it often becomes the cause of many road accidents. Although millions of people drive vehicles safely, there are still a lot of drivers that put themselves and others at risk because of this habit.
Following are 3 things you can do when you see someone driving badly because they are distracted by their phone:
1. If Necessary, Alert the Authorities
Using a cell phone while driving is illegal in many states and most law enforcement authorities encourage the public to report such individuals. However, it is not recommended to call the authorities and report them of a distracted driver unless they are driving erratically to the point that it is dangerous to themself as well as others on the road. What you can do in this case is pull over and note the license plate number and then call the authorities in order to report him/her. Keep in mind that emergency numbers such as 911, should not be used for reporting motor vehicle violations. Only use such services when the driving behavior of the distracted driver is putting themself and others in harm’s way.
2. Drive Defensively
While you might get angry at a distracted driver using their phone and driving badly and might even try to speed up and overtake them, it is recommended that you keep your distance and drive defensively. Giving such drivers space will be best for everyone on the road. Because if someone is not paying attention they may brake suddenly, and turn sharply to avoid things, which may be dangerous. For these reasons, it is recommended that you keep a long distance behind a distracted driver and if you have to overtake them, then make sure you are cautious.
3. Don’t Become Part of the Problem
A distracted driver unknowingly starts a fight with other drivers on the road when they use their cell phone and drive badly. You cannot directly affect the way that driver drives, however you can make sure that you don’t get distracted yourself. It is recommended that you take safety measures in such a scenario. It is advised that you practice safe driving and encourage others to do so as well. In this way, the risks of traffic accidents and other dangers on the road can be reduced.
Additional Steps
Apart from the above mentioned things, there are some additional steps you can take to ensure your safety. Following are some of those steps:
- Give the distracted driver space
- Assume that the distracted driver does not see your vehicle at all
- Do not resort to vigilantism, but instead involve the police if necessary
- Try to pull ahead of the distracted driver, or let them pull ahead by slowing your vehicle down
We at Jan’s Towing strongly promote and encourage safe driving. We also know that sometimes things go wrong and you may need roadside assistance in the future. When you need help with your vehicle while on the road, Jan’s Towing offers fast & reliable towing and roadside assistance – everywhere in the San Gabriel Valley, such as Azusa, Glendora, Covina, West Covina, Arcadia, Irwindale, City of Industry, Rowland Heights, and beyond. In Inland Empire, we service the cities of Fontana, Rialto, Bloomington, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, and surrounding cities. We will respond immediately on a 24/7 basis, so give us a call right now at (626) 914-1841 if you are in need of towing or any roadside assistance!
