Driving Mode, a feature that silences incoming calls and texts while driving, is the latest answer to reducing the number of car accidents caused by technology-induced distractions.
With the latest update for Windows 8 phone, users can set the feature to automatic by connecting the phone to a Bluetooth device in the vehicle. The service also can be turned on manually. Users have the option of sending an automatic reply to incoming texters and callers saying they are driving. iPhone users can activate a “Do Not Disturb” feature which is similar to Driving Mode, but must be turned on manually.
These are simple features that could help save lives.
Still, Driving Mode will not eliminate all distractions because it does not block drivers from sending texts and calls. It just reduces the number of incoming distractions that could make a huge difference on the road in a matter of seconds.
When many think of “distracted driving,” texting and talking on the phone might be what first comes to mind, but they’re not the only thing that can cause a distracted accident.
This past summer, six of my friends from high school and I loaded into a minivan and headed to a county park to watch a fireworks show. Talking and singing at the top of our lungs, we were goofing around the whole way there. We had just entered a roundabout when the car in front of us slammed on its brakes. By the time my friend hit her brakes, it was too late.
It was my first accident.
Luckily no one was hurt, and my friend’s car only had minor damage because she didn’t hit the other vehicle forcefully. Nevertheless, it was scary.
The accident wasn’t her fault. The car in front of her was cut off and had to brake suddenly, but, had we not been loud and distracting, my friend probably would have reacted more quickly and stopped in time.
In 2010, about 18 percent of auto collisions resulting in injuries involved distracted driving, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.
Bills introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives are aimed at increasing road safety. Moving violations, those that drivers commit while operating a moving vehicle and result in the serious impairment or death of another driver or bystander, would be considered a misdemeanor. Punishments include a significant number of community service hours, large fines or time in prison.
The consequences that come along with distracted driving are not worth it. Car insurance rates skyrocket, damage costs are pricey and bodily damage can cause lifelong complications.
According to the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, sending a text message takes away your attention to the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, which also is the amount of time a car traveling at 55 mph can travel the length of a football field. Dialing, talking or listening and reaching for the phone also make a crash almost two times more likely to occur.
Activating the new Windows and iPhone feature, or downloading similar apps such as TextLimit, FleetSafer Mobile or Textecution, is one way to decrease distractions. But other solutions are available, such as becoming more aware of your surroundings and taking responsibility while you’re behind the wheel.
It only takes one decision and a few seconds for your life to change. The distraction can wait.
Micaela Colonna is a State News staff reporter. Reach her at mcolonna@statenews.com.
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