Distracted driving was responsible for 3,142 deaths in 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.[1] this April, Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) More than just respect National Distracted Driving Awareness Month It highlights the correlation between gambling addiction and distracted driving, but also focuses on sharing ways to stay safe on the road.
One of the main signs of a gambling problem is a constant preoccupation with making bets, checking online wagers, and finding extra funds to use for gambling. This endless brain chatter inherently makes impulsive gamblers extremely distracted in completing everyday activities, including driving. Whether you drive to a gambling establishment and expect to experience it, leave the casino and ruminate on your losses, or listen to the radio for the latest sports betting news, the mind of a gambler is on your toes. is everywhere. Exhaustion and despair can be a dangerous combination on the way to your destination, as gamblers deal with the immediate consequences of their own loss and repercussions, and the possible consequences for loved ones.
Studies have shown that problem gambling affects the brain in the same way that alcohol does, but if you crash your car after a gambling addiction, you typically wouldn’t classify it as a driving disorder. [2] Compulsive gamblers often feel a loss of control, so if you find yourself walking towards your car, stop, go back to your car and talk to someone or call or text FCCG. . Your One Sure Thing 888-ADMIT IT for help in the moment. Someone to support her 24/7 and help her find what she needs to stay safe.
Exacerbating this problem, online and mobile gambling has taken driving distraction to new levels. Email and driving are major and growing problems for today’s population, from drivers and passengers to pedestrians. Even checking online betting, stock/cryptocurrency trading apps, or playing online casino games while driving can lead to fatal consequences.
How to prevent distracted driving from gambling addiction
put away the phone – Distracted driving and phone use go hand in hand. If you can’t resist the temptation to check online bets, sports results, or other apps, it’s a good idea to keep your phone out of reach while driving. Place your phone in the trunk of your car so you can’t see it from the driver’s seat.
Listen to support materials in audio format – Available from the problem gambling helpline, FCCG chance for change recovery workbook It can be delivered in audio format, so gamblers can listen to assistive content while driving. Available to seniors, young gamblers, and even loved ones of problem gamblers, the series equips you with knowledge and practical tips for dealing with and recovering from problem gambling.
If you or someone you know may be at risk due to distracted driving related to problem gambling, seek help now. Your One Sure Thing, florida problem gambling helpline, 888-ADMIT-ITcompulsive gamblers and their loved ones, Access resources like speaking with highly trained professionals to listen non-judgmentally and provide actionable steps towards recoveryDon’t wait to ask for help. These resources are free and available to all Floridians her 24/7.
- Stewart, Timothy. “2020 Auto Accident Summary,” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, March 2022. https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813266.
- “Alcoholism and Gambling Addiction.” Alcohol Rehabilitation Guide, 31 October 2022, Available here. https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/resources/dual-diagnosis/alcoholism-and-gambling-addiction/.
