Distracted drivers pose a deadly risk to everyone on the road. Here are 10 tips from the Governors Highway Safety Association for managing some of the most common distractions.

• Turn it off. Turn your phone off or switch to silent mode before you get in the car.
• Spread the word. Set up a special message to tell callers that you are driving and you’ll get back to them as soon as possible, or sign up for a service that offers this.
• Pull over. If you need to make a call, pull over to a safe area first.
• Use your passengers. Ask a passenger to make the call for you.
• X the Text. Don’t ever text and drive, surf the web or read your email while driving. It is dangerous and against the law in most states.
• Know the law. Familiarize yourself with state and local laws before you get in the car.
• Prepare. Review maps and directions before you start to drive. If you need help when you are on the road, ask a passenger to help or pull over to a safe location to review the map/directions again.
• Secure your pets. Pets can be a big distraction in the car. Always secure your pets properly before you start to drive.
• Keep the kids safe. Pull over to a safe location to address situations with your children in the car.
• Focus on the task at hand. Refrain from smoking, eating, drinking, reading and any other activity that takes your mind and eyes off the road.