Drivers today increasingly use their cell phones while driving. Driving while talking on a cell phone or using other electronic devices is a safety hazard. Nearly fifty percent of automobile accidents today are because the drivers were using their cell phones or other electronic devices while driving. Texting while driving is even more dangerous than using a regular cell phone voice communications.

Although most drivers realize that they should avoid talking on the phone while driving and it is against the law in some states, it may be unavoidable at times. If you must use your cell phone while driving, here are a few cell phone safety tips to follow.

Driving cell phone safety tips;

Warning

If using a cell phone for texting or talking while driving is against the law in your state, adhere to the law and don’t do it

Get to know your cell phone and its features, such as speed dial and redial.
Carefully read the instruction manual and learn to take advantage of valuable features most cell phones offer such as automatic redial and memory. Also, work to memorize the phone keypad so you can use the speed dial function without taking your attention off the road.
When available, use a hands-free device. A number of hands-free cell phone accessories are readily available today. Whether you choose an installed mounted device for your cell phone or a speaker phone accessory, take advantage of these devices.
Position your cell phone within easy reach. Place your cell phone within easy reach and where you can grab it without taking your eyes off of the road. If you receive a call at an inconvenient time, let your voice mail answer it for you.
Suspend all cell phone conversations during hazardous driving conditions or situations.
Let the person you are speaking with know you are driving. If necessary, suspend the call in heavy traffic or hazardous weather conditions. Rain, sleet, snow and ice can be hazardous, but heavy traffic can be just as dangerous. Keep in mind that as a driver, your first responsibility is to pay attention to the road.
Do not take notes or look up phone numbers while driving.
If possible, place calls when you are not moving or before pulling into traffic.
Try to plan your phone calls before beginning your trip, or attempt to coincide your calls with times you may be stopped, such as at a stop sign, red light or in a parking space.
If you need to dial while driving, follow this simple tip: Dial only a few numbers, check the road and your mirrors, then continue dialing.
Do not engage in stressful or emotional conversations that may be distracting.
Use your cell phone to help others in emergencies. Be a Good Samaritan and offer assistance when needed. If you see an accident, crime in progress or other serious emergency, call 911 or another local emergency number.

Using a cell phone while driving is dangerous, it should be avoided whenever possible.

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