Whether you’re heading to the store, school or you’re taking a trip to visit Grandma, driving with your young kids in the back is often a stressful experience. Even getting them in the car in the first place can be a struggle!
Wouldn’t you agree?
The truth is if you want to get to your destination safely then everyone needs to let you (the driver) concentrate on the road ahead. However, with little ones in the back, it’s not always that easy. The hard truth is that distracted driving causes thousands of car accidents each year, with drivers losing concentration on the road due to their passengers or their phones, for example.
With this in mind, the last thing you want is to find yourself in a car accident. If this ever happens know that you should phone and speak to a Naples car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Keep reading for some tips to stop your kids from distracting you behind the wheel.
Keep Those Tummy Rumbles at Bay
When kids are hungry and bored, they’ll certainly let you know. Whether that’s through crying or getting into arguments with their siblings. And, we all know that a combination of hunger and irritability is a dangerous and distracting mix.
So, make sure everyone (including yourself) has had a snack and something to drink before you leave. Younger ones may be more likely to fall asleep if their tummies are full and they’re comfortable in their car seats.
Actually, they don’t even have to be hungry to appreciate a snack-related distraction, something with low sugar and salt will keep them occupied while you navigate the busy roads.
Lastly, keep in mind to always try to avoid handing food out if you’re the driver. If you want to dish out snacks, pull over.
Set Some Passenger Rules
Talk to your kids before you set off and let them know that because you’re the driver, you need to concentrate. Make sure they’re aware that fighting, shouting, kicking seats and throwing things aren’t acceptable while you’re driving. Finally, don’t forget to reward them for good behavior!
Don’t Reach Back
“Mommy, can you pass me my toy car?” “I’m done with my drink”, “I’ve dropped my dolly” …The kids will probably have all kinds of requests while you’re driving. And if whatever they want or need is within reach then it’s almost a natural reaction for us parents to reach back to help and pacify them.
Avoid doing this.
Taking your hands off the wheel means you won’t be able to react should something happen on the road ahead. So, remember, don’t reach back.
And Finally, Ask the Kids to Help You
That’s right! Ask them!
When kids feel involved, they’re more likely to do as they’re told. Ask them to remind you to keep both hands on the wheel, and don’t adjust the radio while you’re driving. They’ll be so busy watching your every move, you’ll reach your destination before you know it!
