Tips to Cut Down on Distracted Driving

April is Distracted Driver Awareness month, and we here at Toyota Scion of Concord wanted to give our wonderful customers some pointers on how to stay safe on the roadways. Not only does distracted driving account for a high percentage of accidents on the roadways, but a distracted driver is 23 times more likely to get into an accident – yikes!

We owe our business to you, the customer, and it is our hope that every one of our customers will stay safe on the roadways, so below is our list to stay focused on the road.

1.       Download an app! (Before getting on the road, of course)

·         There are a number of apps, such as AT&T’s DriveMode, tXtBlocker, and “Drive First” by Sprint that can block texting and other distracting features on your phone to cut down on distractions.

2.       Eat First

·         We understand that sometimes in your busy lifestyle you have to grab a bite on the go, but it is a distraction. Plan out your meals and try to squeeze a bite in before hitting the road.

3.       Set a playlist

·         Searching for a station, shuffling through an iPod, or fumbling through CDs are all huge distractions that can take your eyes off of the road for far too long. Try to set a playlist, or pick a CD before driving.

4.       GPS

·         Set your destination before you take off, or if you must change your destination, use voice control options so that you are able to quickly say your destination and keep your eyes to the road ahead.

5.       For parents: make sure your children are occupied and buckled up

·         If you are a parent, you know what we are talking about. Make sure the portable DVD player and snacks are ready to go before hitting the road, it could make the difference in arriving safely with your precious cargo!

These are just a few things that can be done to be safer on the roadways, and it is up to you to make a change and commit to staying focused.

Stop in and let us show you the technology Toyota is implementing to cut down on distracted driving!

We look forward to seeing you, and stay safe!   

Summer Vacation Driving Tips From Toyota of Concord

You want your summer vacation memories to be full of sun and sand and smiles. A few easy preparations can keep those memories safe, just as they can keep your family safe on your summer road trip. Common advice will tell you to unload any unnecessary cargo to get the best gas mileage and leave enough space for passengers and luggage, but there are a few things you shouldn’t leave home without. (Besides, if you drive a Toyota, you have plenty of trunk and cargo space!)

Sunscreen: Getting sunburned on the first day is the surest, fastest way to ensure a miserable summer vacation. Recommended practice is to apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before you plan to be in the sun, and to reapply every two hours – sooner if you swim or sweat heavily. Most people do not use enough. Around 1 ounce (a shot-glass full) will adequately cover the average person. If you keep your sunscreen in your car, you’ll always be prepared for an impromptu swim, and your skin will be protected if you have to wait for roadside assistance in the event of car trouble.

Umbrella: Of course an umbrella is helpful during summer storms, but it can be equally valuable on sunny days. Use it to protect yourself from the sun at the beach, at picnics, or in case you have to walk for help if your car breaks down.

Towels: The opportunity to take a dip in the water is never far away in the summer, so always bring a towel! However, your towel can also be used as a cover to protect your fabric car seats from people sitting on them in wet clothes, or to protect your legs from hot leather seats. It can also double as a sun shade, reducing sun and heat entering your car if it has to be stopped for long periods.

Baby powder: The beach is wonderful, but the sand that lingers long after summer vacation is not. Baby powder is the secret weapon for removing beach sand. A small amount in your hand rubbed onto sandy legs and feet will absorb the water that makes the sand stick, and it will brush right off. The same principle applies if you sprinkle the sand onto clothes and towels before you shake the sand free, and a light dusting of powder on car seats and carpets will allow you to vacuum the sand out more easily. Just be careful not to rub the sand into the carpet or dark fabrics or you could be left with white powder marks.

Emergency kit: Roadside emergency kits are widely available for purchase, but long, hot summer road trips need special consideration. Make sure you carry coolant and a jug of water in case your engine overheats. Hot weather and hotter pavement can weaken tires, so tire inflator is a lifesaver. Baby wipes or paper towels are useful for quick clean-ups after car maintenance.

Share your own summer vacation driving tips on our Facebook page. Safe travels from Toyota of Concord!