Avoiding Distracted Driving With The Help Of Technology

These days, we are prone to distractions when we drive more than ever. According to the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), distracted drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a crash. For many drivers this could be deadly, or it could result in distracted driving charges which can raise your car insurance premiums significantly. In some cases, distracted driving charges can result in you being refused coverage through your car insurance provider completely.

Whether adjusting the controls in your car or the constant presence of a smartphone in your vehicle, distracted driving is indeed a serious problem. Luckily, with the help of modern technology, you can better focus on your driving by keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.

Connect Your Phone To Your Car’s Bluetooth

Virtually all new cars are equipped with Bluetooth technology allowing you to connect your cell phone to your car’s control panel. Having your phone connected to your car allows you to make calls, play music, or use a GPS for directions. All this can now be done without reaching or looking at your phone.

It must be said that making a hands-free phone call in your vehicle can also be distracting if you are intently focused on the conversation. If it is safe to do so, pull off to the side of the road or park your car somewhere to make your phone call.

Use Voice Commands

Modern cell phone and car technology allows you to control different settings by using your voice while driving. In many cases, you can use voice commands to adjust your car’s temperature, activate your built-in GPS, make a hands-free phone call, send a text, change the radio station, or play your favourite song.

To significantly reduce distracted driving, activate voice-to-text and text-to-speech software in your car. This will allow your car’s system to read an incoming text message out loud, while also making it possible for you to reply to the message verbally.

Be Familiar With Your Vehicle’s Steering Wheel Controls

It is a good idea to become familiar with your car’s steering wheel controls as these can significantly reduce your distraction while on the road. Many modern steering wheels come equipped with controls for your Bluetooth devices, your entertainment system, the climate control, cruise control and your vehicle’s voice command system.

These steering wheels were specifically designed to make it easier, quicker, and safer to change the settings in your car while you drive without you looking at your car’s stereo or climate control panel. Be sure to check your car’s owner manual to learn what each control button is for.

"Do Not Disturb While Driving" Mode

If all else fails and you simply can’t resist the urge to look at your phone while driving, consider turning your phone’s settings to the “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode. When you activate the “Do Not Disturb While Driving'' mode on your phone, your calls and texts are blocked as your phone senses that it is connected to your car’s Bluetooth system. Additionally, your phone can send a message to whoever is contacting you that you are driving and that you can’t reply to them at the moment.