‌How To Use Your Cellphone Safely When Driving…Really

Let’s cut right to the chase. There is one thing you can do to put yourself at the greatest risk of a Connecticut auto accident and that is using your cellphone while driving.  Whether you’re texting and driving, talking and driving, changing the music and driving, or any other activity you might be using your cellphone for while driving, it is dangerous and ill-advised.  

We use our cellphones for so many things that it is hard to put them down, even when we know it is good for us.  That is why there are some things you can do to lessen the desire to pick up your phone while you are driving and still utilize some of its functionality while on the road.

1. Commit now to stowing your cellphone away while you’re driving.  Whether you put it in a center console that closes, give it to a passenger, or lock it in your glovebox, the old adage out of sight, out of mind, works here.  
2. Plan ahead.  You may use your cellphone for directions or for listening to your favorite music, you can still do both of these things with your cellphone stowed.  Before you put the car in drive, connect your phone to bluetooth, pick your playlist, and type in your directions so you know where you’re going.
3. Do not disturb.  Most cellphones have a do not disturb feature on them now so you can avoid any calls or text messages coming through.  This will eliminate the distraction all together.
4. Set up a “I’m driving” message to automatically send to anyone who calls or texts while you’re driving.  This way, you are not “missing” any important calls or texts you are getting right back to the person and letting them know you will respond when you stop driving.
5. Pull over.  If you absolutely MUST respond to a text message, make a phone call, change the music, or do anything with your phone, pull the car over safely and use your phone with the car in park.

It may seem like a hassle to take all of these precautions when you’re driving and your cellphone performs so many duties, but it may just be the thing that keeps you from getting into a Connecticut auto accident and saves your life.  

Cellphone use while driving can be incredibly dangerous and if you were injured in an accident involving this type of behavior you may need an attorney to review your case.  Contact our office and one of our experienced attorneys will help you look out for your long-term interests.