Sometimes it's easy to forget things, like taking out the trash or weekly homework assignments, even when you have constant reminders. But when it comes to getting behind the wheel, there's no excuse for forgetting to stay focused. Read our Distracted Driving Checklist to see if you're really keeping your focus while you're behind the wheel.

In 2008, distracted driving caused more than 5,800 deaths and 515,000 injuries in the United States. Below are some tips that can help you be part of the solution, not the problem. Be sure to check out these statistics, too.

• "Would you do it in the shower?" Ask yourself this question every time you start an activity behind the wheel. Would you eat, text, talk on the phone or change a CD in the shower? Then you probably shouldn't be doing it behind the wheel either, right?!

• Know Point B. You should have a good idea of how to get to your destination before revving up the engine. There's nothing more distracting than trying to follow directions when you're driving down the freeway. Make sure to check weather and road conditions as well.

• Manage your time so that you do not have to multi-task or drive aggressively on the road.

• Long day at school and practice? Looking forward to unwinding on the ride home? Sorry, driving isn't "down time." Stay focused on the road and once you get home set aside 20 minutes to eat a snack, sit down and relax.

• You know when your coach tells you to anticipate your opponent's next move during a game? Well, you should do the same on the road. Be prepared for sudden stops, lane changes and uh oh, distracted drivers.

• Save your concentration for the road, not a conversation. The road is not the place to have a serious conversation with your passengers. Check your emotions at the door as well.

• If it's that important, you can text…just pull to the side of the road. We can assure you that your parents and friends won't get mad if you call them back once you have safely pulled off to the side.

• And this is a given — wear your seatbelt every time you get in a vehicle.