There is much concern about the formula of cellphones and cars which has proven to be a deadly relation time and time again. We however want to look at the importance of cellphones while being on the road, as well as encourage more responsible behaviour whilst you are behind the wheel.
In our fast paced society of Jamaica, moving between places and staying in constant communication are two activities that work hand in hand. In matters of productivity the one compliments the next.
Although you perhaps would call first and then drive out to make a delivery, meeting or appointment, sometimes further communication is necessary, like turn-by-turn directions, description of land marks or just general updates from perhaps even the office.
Additionally, having your phone can help you in an emergency. Being locked out of your car, needing to call the police to the scene of an accident, needing to call your mechanic for road-side assistance, call someone for a pick up or even to bring a set of spare keys if you get locked out of your vehicle.
Sadly, there are quite a few possibilities that can ruin your ability to do these things, like leaving your phone at home, not having credit (if your mobile device is prepaid) or having a dead battery.
These are some quick suggestions that you may see fit to utilize.
- Purchase a car charger for your phone.
- Keep a pre-paid card in your car (again, if you have a pre-paid device)
If you’re heading out on a long journey that will see you driving on the high way or in areas where commercial activities are significantly spaced (shops, gas stations etc) perhaps you definitely want to purchase a phone card when you stop in the gas-station for fuel and this is your “just-in-case” card.
A car charger can be a life saver. Phone’s have a way of going dead at some really inconvenient moments, especially on a not-so-great day when you need to maximize on your productivity.
Whatever you need to do to keep your phone active when in transit you should. Sometimes it may be a vital source of arming you with information regarding the safety of a community that you are entering or even a route that you would normally take.
Again, just be moderate with your cell phone usage and restrict it to a necessity. Where as I can’t say I don’t altogether use my phone when I’m driving, I generally avoid:
a) Dialing or sending a text.
b) Staring down at the screen to screen an incoming call.
c) Keep an unnecessarily long conversation.
Usually, I’ll just answer and listen for instructions if someone is passing on important information, or in a courteous manner mention that I’m driving. If it is an absolute necessity to return a call, I’ll try to pull over as opposed to utilising a red-light-break.
Lastly, whether you keep your cell phone in a hand-bag or you keep it in your pant’s pockets, it makes for great practice to place your phone in a more accessible position while driving, that way you don’t need to disturb your driving posture to access it (should you make an attempt to answer) or remove your eyes from the road.
Hope you enjoyed our article this week. Please feel free to leave your comments.
Augustus Auto Repairs.
…keeping you driving.
