Road safety campaigners keep reminding us about the importance of driving safely.
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Their goal is to keep us more focused on the road owing to the high number of accidents associated with distracted driving and other traffic violations.
But, what about passengers? Do they play any role while on the road?
Here you’ll learn how to be a good passenger in a car. Note that passengers are a great source of distraction for drivers, especially young or new drivers.
Follow these safety tips to help you be a considerate passenger for your own safety.
Passengers should always wear their seatbelts
Responsible drivers are always cautious about the dangers of the road. They always buckle up after getting into a car.
At the same time, you don’t want to be the reason why your friend, relative, or any other driver gets a ticket for not buckling up.
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the safest ways of saving your life from a car crash. Remind your driver to wear his/her seatbelt to avoid putting your life at risk.
Never block the driver’s view
While the driver is hitting the road, don’t try to obstruct his/her view as every second matters.
Don’t try to be the obnoxious passenger who jumps from the backseat blocking the rear view while on the road. You may be jeopardizing your safety.
Always be mindful and make sure you are not a source of distraction for your driver.
SEE ALSO: Auto Technology: Are Self-Driving Cars Really Safe?
Put your phone down while on the road
You’ll probably share a ride with passengers who cannot seem to be without getting or making phone calls.
It could be unpleasant for drivers as some phone users start talking loud or even screaming. Be considerate and put your phone down as such conversations are normally a great source of distraction.
If you must answer a phone call, try to speak calmly and moderately so you don’t create any more disruption.
Help your driver better handle distractions
Don’t let your driver get away with distracted driving, including texting and driving.
If your driver receives an important message while on the road, offer some help in case your driver needs to read or reply the text.
Be a helping hand so both of you head to your destination safely.
Do not be an aggressive backseat driver
It could be irritating to be driving when a passenger on the backseat starts voicing rules like a driving instructor.
Remember that your driver needs to stay focused and pointing out mistakes and directions could add more pressure and anxiety.
If there’s anything important that you need to point out about his/her driving, do it before or after you reach your destination.
The driver is always in charge
Avoid trying to set your own rules while being a passenger. There are many passengers out there who keep making rules while on the road.
That could be obnoxious and may even cause some distraction.
For example, don’t try to be in control of the radio or give directions like a GPS device. Ultimately, your driver needs to have some peace before hitting the road.
Passengers must keep their cool
It’s advisable for passenger to always stay calm while on the road. If your driver makes a mistake, keep your cool as people make mistakes at times.
Let your driver stay focused on the road by staying calm and quiet. Any extreme emotion could make things even more complicated for both of you.
Your driver cannot handle your emotional crisis as there’s a lot to take care of while on the road.
SEE ALSO: 6 Causes Of Distracted Driving You Need To Watch Out For
