K. Lynn asked: An estimated 9 million drivers in the U.S. alone are believed to use their cell phones while driving. This almost unbelievably high number of users is worrying when you consider the number of users that are not using a hands-free device while on the phone. In the U.S. several cities, and even states, have now banned the use of a cell phone while driving; unless the driver incorporates a hands-free device.
In New York State it is illegal to drive and talk on a cell phone without a hands-free device. In Flower Mound, Texas, it is now illegal to drive through a school zone while talking on a cell phone without a hands-free device.
Many countries around the world, the United Kingdom & South Africa to name two, have banned the use of mobile phones while driving; all in the name of safety.
The data to support the dangers of cell phone usage while driving is somewhat mixed; but there is no doubt that any form of distraction while behind the wheel is a serious concern.
Consider the following safety tips to help keep you, your passengers, and your fellow drivers safe on the road.
When possible avoid making or answering calls during bad weather; rain, snow or even high winds can be hazardous enough on their own without the added complication of you being distracted!
Sitting in rush hour traffic during your morning and afternoon commute is certainly incredibly boring, but the distraction of making calls in heavy traffic can be very dangerous. A large majority of fatalities on the road happen during the morning and afternoon rush hours; do your part to avoid an accident!
If you absolutely must make or answer a phone call while driving, and you do not have a hands-free device or kit consider asking your passenger to help.
Speed-dial or speak-dial features can be very useful when driving. The ability to either press one button to dial home or to simply say “Home” can greatly reduce your need to look away from the road.
Hands Free Kits
A hands free device or kit allows you the freedom to drive safely with both hands on the wheel. A few years ago the devices were of really poor quality, making cell phone users rather reluctant to use them. Technology has now improved to the point that you can often hear better through the hands free device than you can through the earpiece on your cell phone.
Bluetooth devices are rapidly gaining in popularity. A Bluetooth wireless device eliminates the need to carry the phone; a small earpiece that fits over your ear it transmits a signal over short distances to your mobile phone. It is a simple procedure to get your Bluetooth device to sync with your phone, a lot of phones are now programmed to detect when there is a Bluetooth device in close proximity.
Teenagers & Driving
Knowing that your teenager is on the road is a scary enough proposition for a parent, but knowing that your teenager is also texting or talking excessively on their cell phone while driving can be nightmarish. Be sure to communicate important safety guides to your teenager before letting them behind the wheel with their cell phone.
Melanie
