WHEN THE ENGINE STARTS THE TEXTING STOPS
Everyone knows the dangers of drinking and driving, but what most people
don't realize is that texting is becoming an even greater danger. While
some might assume the problem is limited to teens, that's not the
case. In fact almost half of all adults admit to texting while
driving, compared to only 34% of teens. And distracted drivers were
responsible for over 500,000 police-reported crashes in 2008 alone.
It's a growing issue that has the potential to impact all of us.
STAY FOCUSED ON SAFETY
- Turn your phone off before you turn your car on.
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Can't resist the sight of your cell? Put it in your trunk or glove box
or any place where you won't be able to reach it while driving. Be in
control. Remember it’s your phone. You decide if and when to send and
read texts so take control.
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When taking longer trips, let friends, family and co-workers know you'll
be out of touch with an email or even through one of your social
networks.
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Use advanced car technologies to safely communicate and navigate
while you're traveling.
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Be caring. Never send a text message to a friend who is driving to
meet you, or to anyone you know is likely behind the wheel. Be a BFF.
Friends don’t let each other text and drive.
- Let voicemail capture your voice and text messages.
- If you have to call or text while driving, pull off the road safely and stop.
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Recognize that text messaging can be a habit. Get support from your
friends by letting them know you are working on breaking the texting habit.
Tips for Adults/Parents:
- Be a resource. Share information with your teen about the risks of texting while driving.
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Be an example. Don’t send the wrong message by texting while
you drive. Your teen will follow your example.
Visit the toolkit, www.att.com/txtngcanwait,
to print, discuss and sign the Parent/Teen Pledge.
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If you’re on Facebook, visit www.facebook.com/att to
take the pledge online and encourage your friends
(and family) to do the same.
- Be caring. Don’t send a text when you know your teen is driving. Wait for them to call or text you once they have arrived safely at their destination.
- Be aware. Know your options.
- Above all else, our message is simple, yet vital: When it comes to texting and driving, it can wait.
- Review your teen's cell phone bill with them to see if they are texting at times they are likely to be driving.
- Establish family rules that prohibit texting while driving.
At Beck & Masten South, we care about safety on the road! Ask about advanced technologies available on GMC and Buick vehicles to help you safely get to where you are going!
