AAA Northern California is encouraging motorists to keep their eyes on the road as part of Heads Up Driving Week.

That means keeping the cell phone locked in the trunk, skipping the drive-thru, and not playing DJ with the radio.

AAA’s Heads Up Driving Week is from Sept. 26 to Oct. 2.

 

“It only takes an instant for a crash to occur. In fact, a study by AAA found that the odds of being involved in a crash, or a near crash, double when drivers look away from the road in front of them for two seconds or longer,” said AAA Northern California spokesperson Matt Skryja. “We hope that by driving distraction-free for a week, which allows people to have their heads up and focused on the road, drivers will end up picking up the habit for life.”

 

A new study by AAA shows that 52 percent of drivers say they feel less safe on the roads now than they did five years ago.

The leading reason for that sense of unease is distracted driving. Eighty-eight percent of motorists rate drivers who text and email as a very serious threat to their safety.

 

AAA offers the following tips to minimize distractions:

• Stow electronic devices. Turn off your phone before you drive so you won’t be tempted to use it while on the road. You could also pull over to a safe place to talk on the phone or to send and receive text messages or emails.

• Prepare kids and pets for the trip. Get the kids safely buckled in and situated with snacks and entertainment before you start driving. If needed, pull off the road to safely care for them or pets.

• Satisfy that craving off the road. Eat meals and snacks before driving, or stop for an eating break.

• Get your vehicle road-ready. Adjust seat positions, climate controls, sound systems and other devices before you leave, or while your vehicle is stopped, and store loose gear. Make sure your headlights are spotless so you can see everything on the road and other drivers can see you properly.

• Dress for success before you get in the car. Your car isn’t a dressing room. Brush your hair, shave, put on make-up, and tie your necktie before you leave or once you reach your destination.

• Enlist passengers. Ask a passenger to help you with activities that may be distracting.