There are plenty of ways to put yourself at risk when you’re driving. You could be drinking, under the influence of drugs, on your phone, or even eating. We know you’re hungry, but there are certain things that should be avoided when you’re driving. When it comes to eating drivers, they are ultimately just as distracted as someone on their cell phone. So, we encourage you to avoid this act all together, or at the very least— limit it to the occasional granola bar…
Eating Drivers: Preventing Accidents
Plan your morning accordingly
The majority of the reason for eating drivers is that you’re running late. Your alarm clock was off, or maybe your morning routines just took a bit longer than usual. No matter the reason, you’re running late and have to eat from behind the wheel. As I mentioned, the occasional granola bar is much less risky. However, you’re still taking your eyes off the road and hands off the wheel to unwrap and eat your meal. So, consider prepping your breakfast the night before, eating at the office, or even just being more strict when it comes to that alarm clock.
A commute is stressful. However, when you’re making perfect time it can be a bit less stressful. So, set yourself up for success the night before and in the morning. That missed alarm might still get you from time to time. But making an effort to reduce that might just make all the difference.
Eat while Parked
Eating drivers can be just as dangerous as texting drivers. Finding ways to avoid it, such as the ones we mentioned above, can be beneficial in making sure you aren’t putting yourself and other drivers at risk. You might not have time to sit down and eat at home before work. But, you might make it to work with a few minutes to spare. So, take that moment in your car or the break room and eat your meal. Eating behind the wheel is a no-go, but that doesn’t mean you should skip eating altogether.
Get what you need when you need it
Ultimately, it all comes down to a little planning and discipline. Those extra ten minutes in bed might feel great, but not better than being fed and full until lunch time. So, take an extra minute in the morning or night to decide how you can avoid becoming one of those eating drivers. While it might be an adjustment right now, it’ll be routine in no time at all.