Are you sure you’re always safe on the road?

Cellphone, GPS, iPod, and DVD players are the most common devices that can keep you distracted while you’re behind the steering wheel. Research shows that drivers who are heavy cellphone users are just as prone to car crashes as drunk drivers.

Don’t risk your life just because you need to answer an urgent call. To make sure you’re safe while driving and being surrounded by a bunch of gadgets, you can follow these tips:

• Refrain from using your gadgets while driving. If you really need to make an important call, then do it when the stoplight turns red or before you begin driving.
• If you really need to attend to an important call, it’s best to postpone answering the call. Just make a return call when your vehicle is stopped. Better yet, use your phone’s voicemail feature.
• Don’t rely too much on your hands-free devices-they are just as dangerous as the handheld ones.
• It’s a wise idea to bring someone with you in the car, if possible. He or she can monitor the direction on GPS, take the calls for you, and attend to other important gadget related stuff.
• You can put gadgets like MP3 players and cellphones in a cradle or store them in a safe place so that they don’t slide around inside your car. Likewise, GPS devices should be installed in an area where they don’t hinder your view of the road.
• Set your GPS travel routes and playlists before you drive.
• Of course, focus on the road and resist the temptation of touching any of your gadgets while driving.

Photo and Info: MyCES News