Here at Island Hyundai, we're proud to be part of the Staten Island community. We know New Yorkers are busy, and getting around the city often involves driving. But with April being Distracted Driving Awareness Month, it's a crucial time to refocus on safe driving habits.
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Distracted driving is a serious threat on our roads. It can take many forms, from texting and talking on the phone to eating, adjusting the radio, or even daydreaming. Any activity that takes your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving can be dangerous.
According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYSDMV), in 2022 alone, there were over 215,000 distracted driving crashes in New York State. These crashes resulted in hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries.
The good news is that distracted driving is preventable. Here are some tips to help you stay focused behind the wheel:
- Silence Your Phone: Put your phone on silent mode or Do Not Disturb before you even start your car. Consider using a phone holder that allows you to see incoming calls or texts without picking up the phone.
- Plan Ahead: Map out your route before you leave and familiarize yourself with the directions. This will minimize the need to look at your phone for navigation.
- Focus on the Drive: Make driving your top priority. Avoid eating, drinking, applying makeup, or grooming while driving.
- Utilize Voice Commands: Many Hyundai models, like the feature-packed Santa Fe or the tech-forward IONIQ 5, have voice-activated features for making calls, changing music, or navigating.
- Pull Over: If you absolutely need to use your phone or tend to a distraction, pull over to a safe location first.
At Island Hyundai, we offer a variety of new Hyundai vehicles packed with safety features designed to assist you and keep you alert on the road. These features include Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning. While these features are no substitute for safe driving practices, they can provide an extra layer of protection.
By following these tips and taking advantage of the safety technology in Hyundai vehicles, we can all work together to make our roads safer for everyone. So buckle up, New York, and let's arrive alive.
If you're looking for a new car with the latest safety features, visit us today at Island Hyundai, located at 1590 Hylan Blvd on Staten Island. Our friendly staff is happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect Hyundai for your needs.
