1. Get to know your phone
Get to know your phone and its features such as speed dial and
redial. Carefully read your instruction manual and learn to take
advantage of valuable features most phones offer including,
automatic redial and memory dial-most phones can store up to 99
numbers in memory dial. Also, work to memorize the phone keypad so
you can use the speed dial function without taking your attention
off the road.
2. Use hands free devices
When available, use a hands free device. A number of hands free
wireless phone accessories are readily available today. Whether you
choose an installed mounted device for your phone or a speaker phone
accessory, take advantage of these devices if available to you.
(***Note, studies have shown that the distraction of a driver's
attention from the road contributes to accidents involving cellular
phones and that handsfree devices do not reduce the incidence of
accidents***)
3. Position your phone within easy reach
Position your phone within easy reach. Make sure you place your
wireless phone within easy reach and where you can grab it without
removing your eyes from the road. If you get an incoming call at an
inconvenient time, let your voice mail answer it for you.
4. Suspend conversation during hazardous conditions
Suspend conversations during hazardous driving conditions or
situations. Let the person you are speaking to know you are driving;
if necessary, suspend the call in heavy traffic or hazardous weather
conditions. Rain, sleet, snow and ice can be hazardous, but so is
heavy traffic. As a driver, your first responsibility is to pay
attention to the road.
5. Pay attention to the road
Do not take notes or look up phone numbers while driving. If you are
reading an address book or business card while driving a car, or
writing a "to do" list, then you are not watching where you are
going. It's common sense. Don't get caught in a dangerous situation
because you are reading or writing and not paying attention to the
road or nearby vehicles.
6. Dial sensibly and assess the traffic
Dial sensibly and assess the traffic; if possible, place calls when
you are not moving or before pulling into traffic. Try to plan your
calls before you begin your trip, or attempt to coincide your calls
with times you may be stopped at a stop sign, red light or otherwise
stationary. But if you need to dial while driving, follow this
simple tip-dial only a few numbers, check the road and your mirrors,
then continue.
7. Do not engage in distracting conversations
Do not engage in stressful or emotional conversations that may be
distracting. Stressful or emotional conversations and driving do not
mix-they are distracting and even dangerous when you are behind the
wheel. Make people you are talking with aware you are driving and if
necessary, suspend phone conversations which have the potential to
divert your attention from the road.
8. Use your phone to call for help
Use your phone to call for help. Your wireless phone is one of the
greatest tools you can own to protect yourself and your family in
dangerous situations-with your phone at your side, help is only
three numbers away. Dial 9-1-1 in the case of fire, traffic
accident, road hazard, or medical emergencies. Remember, it is a
free call on your wireless phone!
9. Use your phone to help others
Use your phone to help others in emergencies. Your wireless phone
provides you a perfect opportunity to be a "good Samaritan" in your
community. If you see an auto accident, crime in progress or other
serious emergency where lives are in danger, call 9-1-1, as you
would want others to do for you.
10. Call roadside assistance when necessary
Call roadside assistance or a special wireless non-emergency
assistance number when necessary. Certain situations you encounter
while driving may require attention, but are not urgent enough to
merit a call to 9-1-1. But you can still use your wireless phone to
lend a hand. If you see a broken-down vehicle posing no serious
hazard, a broken traffic signal, a minor traffic accident where no
one appears injured, or a vehicle you know to be stolen, call
roadside assistance or other special non-emergency wireless number.
