CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Have you ever been sitting behind someone at a red light and wonder why they won't move when the light turns green?
I'll bet if you look close enough you will see that they are using a cell phone. Cell phone usage while operating a motor vehicle is not authorized while on base and is even illegal in some states.
According to an article on the web site www.medicalnewstoday.com, "distractions and inattention while driving are estimated to cause 1.2 million crashes annually." The article goes on to say that "cell phones contribute to about 60,000 auto accidents a year in the United States."
That is easy for me to believe given the number of accidents I witness on almost a daily basis while traveling to and from work. Using a cell phone while driving can be just as dangerous as operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. What can you do to avoid becoming a statistic?
While a cellular phone can be a useful tool in helping to increase personal safety, below are some additional steps you can take to protect yourself while on the road:
· Install and use the hands-free or speaker phone option to allow you to keep your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road.
· Make sure your phone is mounted where you can easily reach it while driving.
· Familiarize yourself with all of the operations of your phone and learn to use it without looking. Keep your attention on the road by programming frequently called numbers into the phone's memory to minimize dialing.
· Dial sensibly. Wait until the vehicle is stopped -- or ask your passenger to dial for you.
· Don't use your phone in distracting traffic situations; pull off the road to make a call.
The above can be summarized with three words: use common sense. Any task a driver performs while driving is a potential distraction. It is best to use your cellular phone when you are stopped, but if you must use your phone while driving, it is important to check traffic conditions before placing a phone call or performing any task. If necessary, wait until conditions improve to make your call or learn how your cellular phone operates while parked. If possible, dial while the car is not in motion. If a number is not programmed into memory, dial in short segments, check the traffic, and dial another segment. Never allow your conversation to distract you from driving. Keep calls brief. Keep your eyes on the road, and frequently check the side and rearview mirrors.
In today's technologically advanced world, it is hard to imagine life without a cellular phone. By following the above suggestions, you can help minimize your chance of having an accident while driving and avoid holding people up at a green light.