Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
If you are planning a road trip sometime this year, your phone can help you to stay safe on the road. While distracted driving in Tamarac and other communities is a serious concern and why you will never want to use your mobile device while driving, there is no doubt that phones can make long car trips easier and more fun.
If you are traveling by car, there are several things you can do with your phone to make the process easier:
1) Mapping applications
One of the biggest advantages of your phone is the mapping feature. You can use it to map routes and alternate routes to your destination, so that you know where you are headed. Just make sure that you don’t use the mobile device as you drive. Set up audio instructions so that you can hear the directions or use a traditional GPS system to ensure you aren’t distracted by the phone.
2) Get recommendations for hotels, restaurants, and other tourist attractions.
On a road trip, you will want to make frequent stops to rest so that you don’t have to deal with fatigue or highway hypnosis. Use your phone to find rest stops, diners, stores, and attractions that can give you some time to unwind. Online reviews can help you decide which establishments are worth stopping for.
3) Set up an alarm to tell you when to take breaks.
Long hours of driving are exhausting (both physically and mentally) and may put you at an increased risk of a collision or falling asleep at the wheel. Setting an alarm on your phone can help alert you when it’s time to take a break. Without an alarm, you may not notice how long you have been driving. Just be sure to pull over or stop before turning the alarm off.
4) Keep it as part of your emergency road kit.
If your car breaks down or you are in a roadway crash, your phone can help you call for assistance. Just be sure not to rely on your phone too heavily. Pack a full emergency kit, with water, a first aid kit, flashlight, and everything else you may need.
5) If you are traveling with children, download games and entertainment.
If you are traveling with your family, it can be distracting to hear children complaining or arguing because they are bored. Letting them play on a phone or tablet can help keep them entertained, leaving you free to focus on the road.
Your phone may be able to help you on your road trip, but it can also hold you back. Mapping applications can lead you astray and the phone itself can act as a distraction on the road. That’s why you will want to:
- Keep your cell phone in the glove compartment or in a passenger’s hands while you drive
- Recharge often
- Bring paper maps and a sturdy traditional GPS system with extra batteries if you are headed to remote areas where apps may be less accurate
- Do not glance down at your phone while you drive
- Turn off any signals for incoming calls or messages, or you will be tempted to check them
If you are injured on your trip and need to find an attorney in South Florida, contact Flaxman Law Group at any time. Our law firm is always standing by to assist those who have been injured and we always offer free accident consultations to new clients.