Distracted Driving Facts – April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Thousands have died in car crashes involving cell phone use. New technology allows us to make phone calls, dictate texts or emails and update social media while driving – all actions that are proven to increase crash risk. The National Safety Council observes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month to draw attention to this epidemic. NSC wants empower you to put safety first and Take Back Your Drive (source)

I think it’s pretty safe to say distracted driving has become a relevant issue over the last few years deserving attention and education.  With drivers both young and old on the streets, staying attentive on the road and surroundings is more important than ever.

According to a U.S. Cellular survey, 43 percent of smartphone owners use their device while driving. That’s almost half all the drivers on the road. Smartphone devices, such as the iPhone, can be paired with wireless accessories to increase safety and maintain productivity on the road.

Distracted driving is not limited to using a mobile device, but also includes eating, drinking, grooming and talking to passengers. In 2013, there were 3,154 deaths in relation to distracted driving!

 

Here are some tips and accessories that can help stop smartphone users from getting distracted:

Take away distractions.

It is easy to be distracted by the phone buzzing in the console. If the noise is too disruptive, switch to the Do Not Disturb mode on the iPhone 6s during drive time. Friends and family will understand the commitment to limit distractions.

Prepare yourself beforehand.

Enter the address into the GPS on a smartphone before hitting the road. Make sure to place your mobile device in a spot where directional prompting can be heard to prevent missing a turn.

Utilize accessories.

With accessories such as the Plantronics Voyager Legend Bluetooth Headset, carrying on a conversation during a commute is easy, convenient and safe. According to the same U.S. Cellular survey, 74 percent of those who use their phone while driving utilize a hands-free device such as a Bluetooth headset or in-car Bluetooth system.

Enlist the help of passengers if it can’t wait.

Remember, distracted driving not only affects you, but also impacts the safety of others. Passengers can help you if a message or phone call absolutely can’t wait. If driving alone, consider pulling off the road briefly to use a device.

Make a family commitment.

Make the commitment to not text and drive. With the popularity of texting, it is no surprise that 87 percent of smartphone owners text daily. U.S. Cellular’s Parent-Child agreement allows families to create a customizable contract with family members to make the conversation easier and clearer. The agreement focuses on safety and etiquette, even when it comes to bringing smartphones into the car.

 

Thinking of getting your kids a cellphone? Here is a free Parent Child Agreement that really helps start that conversation.