Countries like the UK and some European nations have banned the use of cell phones when driving a car. While the US hasn’t followed suit yet, we’re expecting that to happen shortly. However, just because using your phone is legal at the moment, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Considering that, we’re going to present some information today that should encourage you to change your habits. There are lots of reasons you shouldn’t take your hands off the wheel to answer a call, and we’re going to highlight them now. With a bit of luck, this info will help even more of you to make the right decisions this year.
Cell phones will take your eyes off the road
When you reach down to pick up your cell phone, you will take your eyes off the road for a few seconds. That is never a good idea, especially if you’re traveling at high speed. A moment’s lapse of concentration could result in a serious crash that costs lives. You might veer off the road on a bend, or smash your vehicle into someone else. Nobody wants that to happen because they might end up in court or face criminal charges. That is the case, even though cell phones are currently legal. While the technology isn’t against the law, driving without due care and attention is classified as a violation.
Cell phones will present other distractions
You should always keep your cell phone out of reach when driving. That is because phones can create distractions, even if you don’t choose to answer the call. At the very least, most people will reach down to take a look at who’s trying to contact them. Indeed, the ringtone itself could encourage you to stop paying attention to your driving. For that reason, we advise that you leave your phone in the trunk or purchase a hands-free kit. Those devices are excellent because they run the call through your speaker system. So, you can talk to people without having to touch your phone.
Cell phones cause fatal crashes
The National Safety Council says that cell phone use while driving leads to more than 1.6 million crashes each year. Nearly 330,000 of those injuries occur from accidents caused by texting. Indeed, attorneys specializing in cases involving automotive accidents claim eleven teens die every day. With figures like that, it’s no surprise that 97% of drivers now support a full ban on cell phone use in motor vehicles. You can’t argue with the numbers – they speak for themselves.
You should now understand the dangers you face when texting or answering calls behind the wheel. If you make only one change to your driving habits this spring, make sure you leave your phone at home. Either that or purchase a sophisticated hands-free system recommended by car safety experts. You won’t have to spend a lot of money, but you could reduce the chances of causing an accident. At the end of the day, nobody wants the death of another road user on their conscience.