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By Scott Mims | Community Columnist

“Do not text and drive” should be a no-brainer, and it should be automatic for every driver, right? I thought so, until I caught myself starting to do it.

Avoid texting — or any other distracting activity when behind the wheel for that matter, is paramount considering the safety of others as well as our own safety while operating a motor vehicle.

But to 99% of us, driving is something we do every day without a second thought. The only thing most people seem to have on their mind is getting to their destination. I have found myself behind enough tailgaters to know that (and occasionally have been guilty of it myself if I am being honest).

But it is too easy to forget that when we drive at highway speeds, our vehicle becomes a deadly hunk of metal, glass and plastic. And if we don’t make it to our destination, how costly is that text or phone call that just couldn’t wait?

Too often we find ourselves texting, making or receiving calls, adjusting dash controls, applying cosmetics, eating or even simply lost in thought when behind the wheel, and it is so avoidable. All you have to do is drive, and nothing else. I even know people who have crashed a vehicle while trying to swat at a fly.

There is never a good enough reason to be a distracted driver. If a message comes through that just can’t wait, pull off of the road to a safe place and handle it there.

I must also mention the dangers of driving while intoxicated. Just do not do it. Get a designated driver, or stay home. Even though it might seem like everybody knows this, teach it to your kids repeatedly.

The number one goal when we are on the road should be safety — to help ensure that everyone makes it to their destination in one piece. It is worth the wait.