Distracted driving is a major problem and our devices are one of the biggest culprits. According to a poll conducted by Braun Research, 95 percent of drivers polled in the survey said that they disapprove of distracted driving, however, 71 percent engage in some sort of smartphone activity while driving. It’s not easy for teens to put the phone down when they get behind the wheel; even parents struggle with distracted driving. That’s why companies such as AT&T are taking action against distracted driving. Here’s how:
360 Experience
At first you might not think that a quick glance to check your text or email is not really all that distracting. But new technology from AT&T shows just how dangerous it is. Called a 360 Experience, this virtual reality simulation shows the very real consequences of looking at a phone while you’re behind the wheel. Users can click, drag and move around to experience the simulation online or watch in Google Cardboard. The 360 Experience is a valuable tool that can show the real dangers of distracted driving and should be viewed by both parents and teens.
Take the Pledge
Parents and teens alike can join millions of other safe drivers and take the It Can Wait pledge. Those who take the pledge agree that distracted driving is never OK and that you’re never alone on the roads, even if you’re alone in your car. The pledge is simple and is something every parent should go over with their teen. It has three statements, the first being “I pledge to care for those around me and put my phone down while I am driving.” Second, “I pledge to share the message: distracted driving is never OK.” And lastly, “I pledge to be aware that I’m never alone on the road.” Teens and parents can share their pledge on Facebook and Twitter like millions of others with photos and the #ItCanWait hashtag.
Download the App
The Drive-mode app was created to minimize distractions while driving. When the free app is enabled it automatically silences incoming alerts, like texts and phone calls, so as to help drivers stay focused when they’re on the road. The app automatically turns on its functions when a car is moving at 15 mph so there’s no fuss about tapping it on or making sure that it’s set to do its job, which could create a distraction itself. Parents will also appreciate the parental alerts, including notifications when teen drivers turn off the app or if auto-mode is disabled.
Education
Safe driving starts with education. In addition to being a good example, parents, you can teach your teen driver how to be safe when behind the wheel. Did you know that in some states texting and driving is illegal? States like Texas and Missouri even have bans on texting exclusively for teens. Citations for texting and driving can even lead to higher insurance rates. And, consider that texting and driving makes you 23 percent more likely to be involved in a wreck. In fact, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported by Driving-Tests.org, 1.3 million accidents were caused by texting and driving in 2011. Next time you get behind the wheel, be a good example and put your phone away and out of sight so that you can drive distraction free.
