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Avoid Using Handphone

Mobile phones have become a necessary accessory no matter where we go, even when driving. It is in fact illegal to use your mobile phone while driving unless it is a hands-free kit. However, using a hands-free kit does not guarantee that it is safe enough. You may think that you are still in control of the car since you are not using your hands. But the fact is a huge part of our minds is used in that phone conversation as well. This makes us less aware of the things around us and ahead of us. Hence, there is still a risk of an accident.

Facts

  • If you use a mobile phone while driving, you may be close to being four times more likely to crash.
  • The reaction time for drivers using a handheld phone could be worse than for driving under the influence of alcohol at the legal limit.
  • Even careful drivers can be distracted by a phone call or a text message and a split second lapse in concentration could result in a crash.
 

Safety Tips

Using Mobiles in Emergencies

Having a mobile phone in your vehicle can be an important safety aid for drivers and passengers in an emergency. If this situation arises and you must use your phone, consider the following tips:

  • Pull over safely if conditions allow.
  • Keep emergency calls as brief as possible.
  • Alert the caller that you are on the road.
  • End conversations immediately if driving conditions or situations become hazardous (for example, bad weather, roadway construction, high-speed or high-volume traffic).
 
 

Survey Bites

Findings from the 2011 AXA Road Safety Survey:

  • Respondents rank answering the phone without a hands-free kit or text-messaging as the 2nd most dangerous driving habit (84% of respondents).