Photo by Marlon Lara on Unsplash
Smart phones are amazing. Whether you want to stay connected with people from across the globe, read a new book, play slots online or make a music video, there’s not much they can’t do.
Unfortunately, smart phones can also be distracting, with many people tempted to use then while driving. Using a mobile behind the wheel was first outlawed back in 2003 – and with good reason. According to the Department for Transport, 43 people died in 2017 in a road accidents because a driver was on their phone.
So how can you avoid using your phone while driving? From navigation to entertainment, there are all kinds of reasons why people feel tempted to use their phones on the road.
In this post, we’ll explain alternative solutions that can help you stay safe while driving from A to B. Stay safe everybody!
- Use A Sat Nav
Today, most of us probably use the maps feature on our phones instead of a dedicated sat nav device. But although mobiles can be handy for navigation, they can also be incredibly distracting – especially if messages pop up en route.
If you like to use your phone to help plan your journey, using a sat nav is a great alternative. Input your destination before you leave and make sure to keep your phone in your bag (or somewhere else you won’t be able to see it) while driving.
A sat nav might not double up as something you can use to text your friend or play live casino, but it does mean you won’t be tempted by notifications during your journey.
- Use A Bluetooth Earpiece
Sometimes, you really need to make a call while driving. Maybe you want to update someone about your ETA or warn a fellow driver about a diversion. Luckily, there are ways to do this without jeopardising your safety and reaching for your phone.
If you’re looking for a safe way to stay in contact on the move, a Bluetooth earpiece or car headset could be a great investment. This technology will enable you to keep your eyes on the road – and hands on the wheel – while talking to family and friends.
You won’t have to pay hundreds of pounds, either. If you’re after a basic model, you can pick one up for under €15.
- Switch Your Phone Off
It might sound obvious – and that’s because it is! If you feel tempted to check your phone every time you’re stuck in traffic, the easiest way to resist is by keeping it switched off, or at least set to silent. (Remember that using your device while the engine is running is illegal even if you’re not moving. That means no scrolling through Instagram during a traffic jam).
Alternatively, your phone might have a ‘do not disturb while driving’ feature that you can turn on during your journey. This means that your screen won’t light up every time you receive a message – instead, it will automatically send the recipient a reply explaining that you’re driving and won’t be able to answer.
- Plan Your Pit Stops
If you’re planning a long journey, pit stops can be a must. Not only are they an opportunity to stretch your legs or grab a coffee, but they can also be a vital chance to recharge before getting back on the road.
Before you leave, make a list of potential places you can stop off on the way. This will prevent you from reaching for your phone to do a quick search for ‘motorway services near me’!
