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Tips for Driving and Talking Safely
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| Don't have a cell phone yet? |
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| Updated |
Jul 7, 2004 20:33:12 |
| Rating |
0 | | Author | Source: LetsTalk.com |
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Description:
For many, wireless communications has delivered on the promise of the untethered life by allowing us to stay in touch wherever we are. And for an increasingly mobile culture, "where" is often in the car. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 85% of cell phone owners use their phones while driving with 27% using their phones during at least half of their trips. That's a lot of driving and talking.
As with any activity you engage in when behind the wheel, using your cell phone while driving can pose potential risks. Already some communities have mandated the use of handsfree phone kits while driving, and many states have similar legislation pending. Beyond the general safe driving practices you learned (or should have learned) in Drivers Ed, there are many ways you can ensure that driving and talking doesn't endanger yourself, your passengers, or others on the road. LetsTalk.com and the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association recommend the following:
Become your own cell phone expert. Learn how to operate your phone's useful one- or two-touch features like redial and speed dial. Enter frequently called numbers into memory. Memorize your key layout so that you're watching the road, not your keypad. Free up your hands. Use a headset, speakerphone, or phone mount so that your hands can stay on the wheel. Get 15% off one of these potentially life-saving accessories. Click here for more information! Keep it within reach. Place your phone in easy reach-not, in your purse, back seat, or glove compartment. You should be able to grab it without looking away from the road. Keep your cool. Traffic can be infuriating enough without arguing on a phone. The NHTSA analysis of crash data found that most cell phone-related crashes occurred when users were talking-not, as you may expect-when they were dialing. Time your calls. Make calls before heading out into traffic or when stopped at a light. If you must dial while driving, enter two or three numbers at a time while checking the road in between dialing. When the weather's stormy, stop talking. In rain, snow, or heavy traffic, end your conversation. Hazardous road conditions require a driver's full attention. Don't take notes (at least written ones). In contrast to fifth period geometry, you don't want to take notes or read at this time. You should, however, constantly take note of your driving environment. Be a cell phone Samaritan. Many people get a cell phone as a measure of security. The CTIA and LetsTalk.com also encourage you to use your phone to help others. If you see unsafe driving, a serious accident, or a medical emergency, use your phone to call 9-1-1. If you encounter a non-urgent situation such as a minor fender bender or broken traffic light, call roadside assistance or other non-emergency numbers. Remember to always provide location information such as road names, landmarks, and directions as cell calls can't be traced as easily as those made from a landline.
Click here for $25 off a new cell phone with activation! |
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