Cell phones have become a primary means of communication in today’s society. In addition to making a call or sending a text, they provide a convenient way to check email and social media while on the go. Unfortunately, this convenience is has also become an large distraction for drivers, regardless of age.

Here are a few things to remember for cell phone use in vehicles:

1. Never read or send text messages while driving. Many phones offer a “driving mode” that will notify your contacts that you are driving and will reply when you are able.
2. Place your phone where it is easy to reach and you can answer without taking your eyes off the road.
3. Invest in a headset for making and answering calls while driving, and utilize your virtual assistant (Google, Siri, Alexa) for making calls.
4. Never drive during phone conversations that are emotional or stressful, or when the discussion becomes complex. This decreases your attentiveness to your surroundings, increasing the risk of an accident.
5. Let calls go to voicemail when you are in heavy traffic or experiencing harsh weather conditions.
6. Do not check your email, or access social media while in the driver’s seat. Even checking in for a few seconds takes your attention away from the road, and the drivers around you, and lowers your reaction and response times.

Keep yourself and other drivers safe by using your cell phone responsibly every time you are behind the wheel of your car.