There are tons of reminders out there to tell us that texting while driving is dangerous. Commercials; bracelets; websites; fliers; most anything you can think to put a message on. And, unfortunately, it’s for good reason.
A recent study shows that America leads in texting and driving, with a whopping 30 percent of people choosing to disregard laws and safety by choosing to partake in this often deadly scenario. Think about it; in the last week alone, how many people have you personally witnessed texting behind the wheel? Probably quite a few, right?
The problem arises from loss of focus and concentration—two things people really need behind the wheel. According to fairly recent statistics, an estimated 421,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver in 2012.
Communication in today’s world is important, but so is safety. Instead of texting while driving, try some of these alternatives instead.
Text-to-Speech
Android or iOS, there are apps out there that can help you talk to your phone while it writes a text for you. We don’t want to advocate texting at all while driving, but if you really need to respond to someone, get an app that lets you text hands-free, simply by talking to your phone (that’s hopefully mounted on your dash and not in your hand). This helps you keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
Auto-Reply Text
New phones today actually have built-in applications that allow your phone to send an automated message while you’re driving. Some activate automatically when your car starts moving, others have to be turned on. Either way, it lets people know you got their message, but that you’re too preoccupied to respond.
Friends Can Help
You won’t always be traveling with a friend, but when you are, let them text for you! If you’re too embarrassed to let them text, it means it’s not that important anyway, right!?
Turn it Off
I know, this probably doesn’t sound super appealing, but if you find yourself checking your phone often or waiting for that next text, turning your phone off will keep you from hearing that beep or feeling the vibration of an incoming message. Out of sight, out of mind, as they say.
Replace the Distraction
Texting while driving is a much more dangerous driving pastime than say, singing at the top of your lungs. It also allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes focused on what’s around you. Sure, you aren’t getting the latest updates about what’s going on with your brother’s loose tooth, but it’s better than never getting to laugh at that silly gap he’ll be sporting for a few weeks.
