Starting November 1, Oklahoma will join the ranks of most other U.S. states when a law goes into effect banning texting and driving. Offenders can expect to pay a $100 fine if caught texting while operating a motor vehicle. Until the beginning of November, texting and driving will be considered distracted driving if it results in an accident or if an officer determines the person is a danger to others. Of course, texting and driving is not the only distracted driving behavior. Here are four other distracted driving behaviors you should avoid:

Reading

Whether reading something on your cell phone, trying to finish a book, or looking at a map, reading takes your eyes off the road. Taking your eyes off the road, even for just a few seconds, can result in a crash with another vehicle, a pedestrian, or an inanimate object.

Getting Ready for the Day

Putting on your make-up, brushing your hair, and getting dressed are all activities you should have done before you got in the car. Not only do these activities likely take your eyes off the road, they cause you to take your hands off the wheel, creating an even greater driving hazard.

Using Electronic Devices

Of course, this includes texting, but it also includes things like talking on your cell phone, watching a video on a phone, or programming an address into a GPS device. Even looking down to change a radio station can cause a driving distraction. Avoid these behaviors as much as possible.

Driving While Tired

People may not think of driving while tired as a distraction, but it can be extremely dangerous to drive if you have not gotten enough sleep. It slows down your reaction time. You become less alert and could be less likely to see potential dangers. If you are tired, you may even fall asleep at the wheel, causing an accident. Get enough sleep before getting in your vehicle will allow you to be a more alert driver.

If you are involved in an accident involving a distracted driver, an auto accident lawyer can help you. Contact us for a free consultation.