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DRIVERS USING CELL PHONES 4 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO
HAVE ACCIDENT
By: Anne Martin, Claims
Dept.
 Operating a vehicle takes concentration, focus and awareness of the
constantly changing surroundings. Talking on a cell phone can take your focus
away from the road and increase your risk of accidents. According to the
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, on average, a person is four times
more likely to have an accident while talking on a cell phone. We have seen
many states change their laws in regards to hand-held cell phone usage while
driving. We are expecting Oregon to follow
suit with Washington and California laws prohibiting use of
hand-held cell phones while operating a vehicle. The following guidelines can
be included into your organizations fleet safety program:
Get
your phone set up to be legal and safe!
Every
cell phone manufacturer creates different devices to use in a hands-free
manner. Knowing how to program your speed dial, operate the speakerphone,
voice activation, redial features and other safety functions are important
operations to know how to perform.
Have
someone else make the calls
If
passengers are present, allow them to answer or dial calls for you.
Use a
hands-free device with your cell phone
A number
of hands-free cell phone accessories are readily available. Whether you
choose an installed mounted device for your cell phone or a speaker phone
accessory, take advantage of the devices if available to you. Assure it is
safe and legal!
Do not
multi-task with your phone when driving
Never
text message or take down notes when the vehicle is in motion. These types of
activities are serious distractions and increase your risk of an accident.
Use
you voicemail
Allow
phone calls to go to voice mail, and return your calls when you reach your
destination.
Pull
over
If
possible, pull your vehicle over to a safe location before making or
answering a phone call. Find a location, such as a parking lot or a side street,
and park your car before operating your cell phone.
Do not
use your cell in poor driving conditions
Poor
driving conditions or low light situations can severely affect your reaction
and response time. Using a cell phone when driving at night or in a rainy
situation is not recommended.
Please
remember that it only takes a moment of inattention to create a dangerous
situation. A car travels 80 feet per second at 55 mph. A lot can happen
in that 80 feet, so remember proper cell phone usage is important for your
safety and those around you.
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