Dangers of Cell Phones

Hi.  I’m Steve Hammes from DriveTime.  Did you know that distracted driving is a leading cause of traffic accidents?

With cell phone use on the rise, increasingly, use of cell phones, smart phone functions and texting are major causes of distracted driving.

Many states have regulated the use of cell phones while driving, indicating the need for hands-free operation. Auto manufacturers have adapted, making great strides to incorporate Bluetooth technology into vehicle options.  Call pick up is often done from a button on the steering wheel or dash.  Phone books can be accessed easily with the option to use voice commands.

In addition, many smart phones have options to stream audio, and provide navigation.  Anything requiring a driver to take their eyes off the road can create a situation where reaction time is reduced.

Although vehicle integrated Bluetooth and hands free devices are better than talking on a handset, their use is still considered a distraction from driving defensively.  We suggest that cell phones should not be used, even with hands-free systems.  Pulling off the road to a safe location to complete the call is the best option.