For Your Safety 140
of valuable features most devices offer, including automatic redial and
memory. Also, work to memorize the device keypad so you can use the
speed dial function without taking your attention off the road.
2. When available, use a hands-free device. A number of hands-free wireless
device accessories are readily available today. Whether you choose an
installed mounted device for your wireless device or a speaker phone
accessory, take advantage of these devices if available to you.
3. Make sure you place your wireless device within easy reach and where
you can reach it without removing your eyes from the road. If you get an
incoming call at an inconvenient time, if possible, let your voicemail answer
it for you.
4. Suspend conversations during hazardous driving conditions or situations.
Let the person you are speaking with 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. Don’t take notes or look up phone numbers while driving. If you are reading
an address book or business card, or writing a “to-do” list while driving a car,
you are not watching where you are going. It is common sense. Do not 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; 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 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
of a car. Make people you are talking with aware you are driving and if
necessary, suspend conversations which have the potential to divert your
attention from the road.
8. Use your wireless device to call for help. Your wireless device is one of the
greatest tools you can own to protect yourself and your family in dangerous
situations -- with your device at your side, help is only three numbers away.
Dial 911 or another local emergency number in the case of fire, traffic
