10 Rules For Co-Pilots: Because Calling Shotgun Comes With Responsibility
Even the best driver is only as good as his or her co-pilot. The person in the passenger seat of a vehicle can make or break any trip. Whether embarking on a long road trip or a routine ride to work, the co-pilot has particular duties that should be adhered to at all times. Some of these rules are serious and some lighthearted but they are all necessary to create a safe, fun and enjoyable experience. As you read this list, keep one thing in mind: calling shotgun comes with responsibilities.
Read A Map: Just about everyone has navigation on his or her phone or in their vehicle, but technology doesn’t always get the job done, particularly if you are traveling in an area that is under construction. In those instances where the Garmin, Magellan or Google Maps are not working correctly, the person in the passenger seat has to take over as the real-time navigator. 
Photo courtesy of SimpsonCrazy
Be A Good Lookout: Community-based traffic and navigation app Waze is cool for directions, alerting users of police in the area and potential hazards, but there is nothing like an extra set of human eyes in the car. The driver shouldn’t be speeding or breaking any other traffic laws but things happen, and in those cases, the driver needs a co-pilot who can spot police in enough time for the driver to lay off of the gas pedal.
Don’t Touch The Radio: Normally the rule is: he who drives chooses the music. In cases when the driver relinquishes said duties, it is up to the co-pilot to pick entertainment that is suitable for the driver. Whether it’s a radio station, a playlist or a podcast, the passenger must not pick anything lame or inappropriate for the moment.
Keep The Driver Focused: Texting while driving is one of the most common distractions while behind the wheel. Drivers should police themselves, but the co-pilot can ensure that everyone in the car is safe by keeping the driver from texting while driving. This may sound like a minimal issue but the stats show otherwise. 
According to data from a 2014 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, 421,000 people were injured in accidents involving distracted drivers in 2012. To make matters worse, over 3300 people were killed in accidents involving distracted drivers.
The co-pilot should offer to answer texts and/or emails, and if that doesn’t work, just smack the phone out of the driver’s hand.
Avoid Breaking The Law: If you do anything illegal or possess illegal substances while riding in a car, the driver is the one who will most likely deal with the majority of consequences. The bottom line is, you don’t want to get your friend in trouble and you really don’t want to go out like Shane Ray.
