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GEICO's message to Labor Day drivers: "Stay focused ...don't drive distracted"


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SAN DIEGO--When researchers determined that distracted driving causes nearly 80 percent of automobile crashes,* said Greg Kalinsky of GEICOs San Diego office, we thought it was our job to help spread the message, particularly for Labor Day.

Were coming up to one of the most dangerous holidays for driving in the U.S., and we want to remind drivers to stay particularly focused and alert. It couldnt be more simple: Dont drive distracted. It will save lives.

GEICO offers the following safe driving reminders to help drivers stay focused while traveling with family and friends this Labor Day weekend:

  • Use your cell phone for emergency situations only. Even in an emergency situation, drivers should safely pull off the roadway to make a call.
  • If you are drowsy, pull off the road to rest. Drowsiness leads to being distracted and is a major cause of accidents.
  • Limit the activity going on inside the car while you are driving.
  • Avoid eating while driving.
  • Do your multi-tasking while outside the car.

And dont let your teenager tell you otherwise

Studies show that people are 1) limited in the amount of information they can process at any one time, and 2) that they cant successfully shift their attention back and forth among multiple demands. Those are the scientific facts.

Teenagers are at an age where distractions are even more of a problem because they have so little driving experience to begin with and they dont know how to handle unexpected driving situations. Teen drivers should be particularly mindful of avoiding distractions while theyre on the road during the busy holiday.

For more on safe driving, go to GEICOs Auto Safety Library at www.geico.com/auto/safety.

GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is the fourth-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States. It provides auto insurance coverage for more than 7 million policyholders and insures more than 12 million vehicles. GEICO, a member of the Berkshire Hathaway group of companies, is rated A++ for financial stability by A.M. Best Company. GEICO keeps its rates low by dealing directly with the customer. GEICO provides consumers with outstanding sales, service and claims capabilities on its geico.com Web site 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Consumers may also contact the company at its toll free 1-800-841-3000 number. 15 minutes could save you 15% on car insurance. For more information, go to www.geico.com.

* National Highway Traffic Safety Administration