Q&A WITH JEFF HEELEY
Agreements, apps can help parents promote safe smartphone use while driving
Q: April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month nationally and in Oklahoma, which currently has laws against texting while driving, one of the top two leading causes of accidents. What’s considered to be a distraction?
A: More than 4.5 million people were injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2017, and fatalities topped 40,000 for the third straight year, according to the National Safety Council. Many people recognize texting and using apps for directions can be distractions. But eating, grooming, smoking, adjusting vehicle settings, driving when tired or being lost in thought can be hazardous.
Q: What smartphone apps or other accessories can help keep Oklahomans’ eyes on the road?
A: A U.S. Cellular study shows 71 percent of smartphone users use a hands-free device such as a Bluetooth handset while driving. Many cars now offer Bluetooth calling options through the vehicle’s speakers. Other choices are a Bluetooth earbud speaker or an in-car device that can turn most car radios into a Bluetooth speaker. Many apps enable you to automate prompts by voice commands. Drivemode for Android devices can send automatic text replies and simplify driving by activating your favorite apps through voice commands. Voice-activated technology is also available on navigational apps like Waze so that your eyes can stay on the road and hands on the wheel while getting directions.
Q: What’s the parent-child agreement and how can that help? A: One way to start the safe driving discussion is with U.S. Cellular’s customizable Parent-Child Agreement, which helps teens and parents set family rules and expectations. It’s an opportunity to mention the different kinds of distractions as well as a chance for adults to showcase apps or other accessories that can help teens keep their eyes on the road. To access the agreement, visit www.childphoneagreement.com. Additionally, parents can monitor driving habits through helpful tools such as the CruiseConnect app. With this tool, parents can set and receive boundary alerts, track their vehicles in real time and monitor family driving behavior through analysis of unsafe driving, such as texting while driving, harsh braking and speeding.