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The use of cell phones has skyrocketed
in recent years. Studies have estimated that people spend 60% of their
cell phone time in the car. The opportunity to be distracted while
dialing or talking on the cell phone is ever increasing.
Only a few states have banned hand-held cell phone use while driving.
These states include New York, New Jersey and Washington, D.C.
Other states and cities have considered similar laws.
Cell phone safety tips
Whenever possible, pull over or wait until you’ve stopped before you
use your cell phone. But if you must use your cell phone while driving,
below are a few tips to help you safely use your cell phone on the
road.
- Use the features of your phone – these include
speed dial, redial, automatic redial, memory dial, and/or voice
dialing. Know how to use these features easily and without having
to fumble or take your eyes off the road.
- Use hands-free devices – these include cell
phone cradles mounted in your car, or hands-free microphones.
- Have your phone in easy reach – while driving,
you don’t want to be fumbling or digging through your bag looking
for your cell phone. The phone should be in easy reach without
having to take your eyes off the road.
- Avoid long conversations – Keep your conversation
short. Mention that you are driving and will get back to them
once you are at your destination. Avoid stressful or emotional
conversations.
- Dial when stopped – Try dialing when your car
is not moving or when you are stopped at a red light or stop sign. You must still
keep alert to the ‘stop and go’ traffic around you to avoid a
low speed accident.
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