Growing technology makes it easier to stay connected 24/7, which makes our super-connected world go round. But this constant connectivity can cause problems - scariest of which is the danger of distraction. We all know we probably shouldn’t be chatting on the phone or texting away while driving, but it’s all too apparent that for some reason, people just can’t follow these simple rules. The latest in the disappointing world of distraction-driven disasters? The Los Angeles Metrolink train that killed twenty five people when it ran a red light. Although the train company has rules prohibiting the use of wireless electronic devices, it is suspected that the engineer may have been texting a group of teenagers aboard the train, causing him to miss the signal.
MSNBC ran an article this morning with some interesting information on the subject:
’“The prevalence of driving while distracted can be attributed to technology and our societal mindset to be available at all times,” said Nationwide Insurance earlier this year, after doing a survey about the problem.’
Several states are working to outlaw DWD (driving while distracted), but as we can see, a law may not make much of a difference. As of right now, only five states have banned text-messaging while driving: Alaska, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey and Washington state, as well as the District of Columbia. Seven other states; New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Massachusetts, Nevada and Delaware, have bills pending that would ban text messaging by all or specific segments of drivers.
So how do you do your part to decrease the problems and effects of DWD?
1. Don’t text, email, dial, or IM. It seems counterintuitive that we’d even need to say it, but anything that involves using one or both hands to push itty-bitty buttons and the brain-power required to type out a sentence or two on a non-standard or tiny keyboard is going to add a significant degree of danger to your driving.
2. Two hands on the wheel & Eyes straight ahead. If you can’t keep yourself off the phone for the commute, make sure you’re equipped to talk as safely as possible. Invest in a headset or car kit that will allow hands-free conversation and touch-of-a-button controls for answering calls. Higher end headsets, matched with the right phone, even allow hands free dialing - a function that allows you to dial a number simply by stating the contact’s name.
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Corded Headsets: The least expensive option for going hands-free, a corded headset will allow easy answering of calls at a minimum price. With headsets as low as $20, many do double duty as a stereo headset that enables private listening to your cell phone’s music.
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Bluetooth Headsets: A versatile option, a Bluetooth headset will keep you wireless, hands-free, and connected at all times. With a wide variety of the newest Bluetooth headset, Gammoth’s Customer Support will help you find the headset that fits your needs. Whether you want the newest and coolest Jawbone 2, or need a high quality headset that will withstand some wear-and-tear, we’ll help you find the Bluetooth that’s best for you.
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Stereo Bluetooth Headsets: My personal favorite- a Stereo Bluetooth headset provides the maximum in music-listening experience and also keeps you connected with phone taking and making capabilities. Many headsets have call placement, reception, and volume buttons built right in, and all will ensure you don’t miss any calls while listening to your favorite music.
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Bluetooth Car Kits: If you’ll only need hands-free capabilities in the car, one of the easiest and highest-quality options is to have a car kit installed. While this method of going hands-free is a little pricier, it’ll pay for itself when you realize it’s ease of use and supreme sound quality, as a Bluetooth Car Kit can use your vehicle’s speakers to transmit your conversation.
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Bluetooth Speakers: The same concept of the Bluetooth Car Kits - high quality speaker use of your phone when in a certain area, but less of a commitment. Cheaper, portable, and without the necessity of installation, a Bluetooth Speaker is perfect for someone who likes to be on speaker phone (or who hates having a pesky little earbud on them) but isn’t sure they want to be confined to the car.
Whatever your hands-free choice is, make sure you make one. While the cost and time investment of getting a Bluetooth product may at first seem daunting, think of the safety you are gaining in exchange. There’s no doubt you’ll decide it’s worth it.
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