3 Tips To Avoid Using Your Phone While Driving

The use of cell phones while driving is a rampant problem in the United States. Studies suggest that more than 800,000 drivers use their phones and/or any other electronic devices while riding their automobile. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2015, 391,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes wherein a distracted driver was the culprit. In another study, more than 30 percent of drivers between the age group of 18 to 64  admitted to  having sent text messages while driving. This is an alarming trend, which if not curtailed, can have far-reaching consequences. 

Smartphones in particular are one of the leading causes of indiscretions by drivers. Below, you'll learn about 3 key tips to avoid cell phone use while driving:

Use Voicemail

If you are driving and your cell phone starts to ring, it is best to avoid the temptation of receiving the call.  Instead, use the voicemail feature of the phone to send a message to the caller that you will call back. Using voicemail is a pretty simple and easy process that spares you a lot of trouble on the road. You are able to concentrate properly on the road and make your driving safer.

Keep your cell phone out of reach

It is a good idea to keep your cell phone completely out of your reach while driving. If there’s an urgent phone call that you need to take, stop your car before attending to it. Even better, drive into a parking lot and then start to talk.

Use the speed-dialing option

The speed dialing option always comes in handy if you absolutely have to make important calls while driving. Keep the phone numbers of your near and dear ones on speed dial.

Despite being aware of the potential risk in taking phone calls while driving, once in a while, we do feel tempted to talk over the phone while we are on the move. However, one should remember that the chances of mishaps increase if the topic of conversation is stressful, emotional, or complex. And finally, never text when you are behind the wheel!