Mobile Phones

Driving is the most dangerous thing we do everyday. Mobile phones have become part of everyday lives and, in an emergency situation; they can be a lifesaver. However, when you are behind the wheel, they can be a Killer!You are Four times more likely to have a crash if you are using a mobile phone while driving.

Using a hands free phone while driving is a significant distraction, and substantially increases the risk of a driver crashing.  Those that are more likely to use a mobile phone while driving are company car drivers or drivers on long journeys.

What are the Risks associated to driving while using a hands held or hands free:

Drivers…

• are less aware of what’s happening around them.
• fail to see or notice road signs.
• fail to maintain proper speed and lane positioning.
  

Drivers using a mobile phone while driving are more likely…

• to tailgate the vehicle in front.
• to react more slowly and take longer to brake.
• to enter unsafe gaps in traffic.
• to feel more stressed and frustrated.

 What are the Penalties for using a hand held mobile phone while driving?

 Advise for Drivers

 Use a Message Answering Service:
Ask yourself, is it necessary to answer ALL Calls? The answer is No in most cases. Use a message service and call back at a more suitable and safer time. 

Stop in a Safe Place
If a call is urgent or cannot wait, park in a safe area and Stop Driving. Only then should you Make or Take a call on your mobile.Remember: Never stop on a hard shoulder or a motorway unless in emergencies.

Hand Held or Hands Free?
It is illegal to use a Hands Held mobile phone while driving, however, a hands free kit can be just as dangerous, as it too causes a distraction and takes away from the primary responsibilities that the driver has while driving.

Call on a Passenger:
If you really need to make a call, ask a passenger to make the call for you, using the hands free kit. Allow them to dial the number while you drive.

Stressful calls:
Stressful calls should be avoided at all costs. Discontinue any conversation with a caller while driving. Call the person back at a later stage when it is safe to do so.