We are all well aware that we shouldn’t drive while distracted and that nothing presents a bigger distraction than our cell phones. Whether talking or texting, cell phone use while driving can not only net you a ticket, but also runs the very real risk of finding you involved in a car accident.
There are times, however, that cell phone use while driving is unavoidable. When you absolutely must use your cell phone while you are operating your vehicle, it is imperative that you do so with the utmost safety. Here are 5 tips for using cell phone while driving with utmost safety:
1. Utilize A Hands-Free System
Even if you think that you will never drive and use your cell phone at the same time, it’s a good idea to purchase a hands-free system for your car. If your car isn’t equipped with Bluetooth, you can easily find a system that will work with your car’s 12v and auxiliary hook-ups. Hands-free use of your cell phone is always the safest option when it comes to driving and talking at the same time.
2. Pull Over
If at all possible, pull over to the side of the road or, better yet, into a parking lot before you use your phone. By getting off of the road, and stopping your vehicle, you practically eliminate your risk of causing, or being involved in, an accident.
3. Know Your Phone
Before you attempt to use your phone in the car, you should know exactly where its functions, buttons or icons are located. By knowing how to operate your phone ahead of time, you won’t have to take your eyes off of the road for an extended period to answer or dial your phone.
4. Use Speed or Voice-Activated Dialing
Smart phones today have features that make them user-friendly and safer to operate while driving. Get to know your phones voice-activation features and use them to make calls or to text your family or friends while you’re in the car. If your phone does not have a voice-activation feature, at least program important numbers so that they can be dialed with a very short combination of key taps.
5. Use Common Sense
Your vehicle is not the place to take part in emotional or stressful conversations. There is nothing that can’t wait until you get home or to somewhere that is safer than your moving vehicle. When considering whether or not to use your cell phone while driving, ask yourself if it is an emergency. Ordering dinner, calling a friend or returning your mother’s phone call can all wait; mundane conversations are not worth risking your life or the lives of others.
Cell phone use while driving should be avoided when at all possible. There are times and situations, however, when using your phone in the car cannot be avoided. When these times arise, use as much care as possible to avoid causing harm to yourself and others.
Lisa Tulley is a stay at home blogger and writes for www.Kanetix.ca, a site where you can compare auto insurance. Find a better rate by using Quebec car insurance quotes from Kanetix auto Quebec!
Credits: Top Image & Bottom Image