Cell phone Usage Guidelines - Driving

Operating a motor vehicle requires the driver’s constant attention. Anything that distracts the operator of a motor vehicle dramatically increases the risk of an accident. Whether it is changing radio stations, reaching for a cup of coffee, or using a cell phone, such distractions requires that the driver takes their eyes off the road leaving them vulnerable to changing road conditions that could cause a wreck. The following guidelines are provided:

• Do not answer the phone while driving. Most cell phone plans come with voicemail, caller ID, receiving call lists, etc. as part of the package. Let your call go into voicemail until your trip is finished or you can pull over to return the call. Using the cell phone only when the vehicle is parked is the best method to eliminating this risk.
• Use hands-free installed equipment. Varieties of kits are available on the marketplace, from earpieces to cradles-microphones-and-speakers. The use of the phone memory for commonly called numbers and speed dialing can be helpful in getting your eyes back on the road. The location of your phone cradle should be within easy reach.
• Keep calls brief and stop the conversation if the road conditions become hazardous. Social and personal calls can usually be deferred to a later time. Calls that are emotional in nature require more of a driver’s attention, thereby raising the risk for an accident. Such conversations should take place when the vehicle is parked.

Should you have any questions concerning the use of cellular telephones while driving, contact the Risk Management group at x6363.