As we become more dependent on
the internet to keep us connected to the things that are important to us,
considerations must be made for the safety of ourselves, our passengers and
those sharing the road. If you can’t bear to be disconnected during a long
commute, here are a few tips for using the internet safely while in the car.
- Pull Over –
The simplest way to keep in-car internet use safe is to pull over. Many
automakers are rolling out web-browsing capability in their newest models,
but most of the more distracting features are only available when the
vehicle is in park.
- There’s An App
For That – Mobile connectivity is always at the tips of your fingers
with an iPhone or Android powered smartphone, and most of these phones
have apps available that keep internet use safe while driving. Apps that
allow the user to compose text messages, Facebook status updates and
tweets via speech-recognition technology make it easy and safe to stay
connected on the go.
- In-Dash
Systems – An in-dash internet system is predicted to be a standard
feature in new vehicles within the next five years. These fully integrated
systems come equipped with safety features that make choosing a restaurant
while at a stop-light or finding the nearest gas station a breeze.
- Carpool –
In addition to being an earth-friendly choice, carpooling allows
passengers to safely use in-car connectivity to their hearts’ content
while the driver focuses on the road.
- Listening To
Internet Radio – Scanning internet radio stations offers a huge
selection of music at the tap of a screen. No more dangerous than using a
traditional radio while driving, the world of music is opened up with
online radio.
- Online
Navigation Systems – Navigation and GPS systems that run on a
broadband signal rather than a satellite one can be more accurate, which
actually boosts the safety of using these devices. More accidents may be
avoided by eliminating slow or inaccurate flow of navigation information.
- Driver’s
Assistance Tools – Web-based warning systems can alert drivers to
traffic problems and other driving hazards ahead audibly, eliminating the
need for hands-on browsing and increasing safety.
- Weather
Updates – In addition to navigation and traffic hazard alerts, there
are applications available for in-car use that warn of severe weather
along an itinerary audibly. These features are especially useful for long
roadtrips where drivers may encounter several changes in weather along the
route.
- Text-To-Speech
Email – Drivers anxiously awaiting an important email can now have
incoming messages read to them through in-dash systems or an enabled
smartphone. Instead of scrambling with a phone and taking your eyes
of the road, you’ll be able to stay on top of your inbox without taking
your hands off of the wheel.
- Smartphone
Linking Systems – Systems that link the in-car computer with a
smartphone via wireless network bring all of the bells and whistles of
your phone to the dash, making it a snap to safely access stored music and
compose messages through speech recognition.
However you choose to stay connected in the car, be sure to adhere to
all local laws regarding phone/device usage while in motion and to restrict all
use in hazardous conditions. Even the safest systems can be a distraction,
especially in inclement weather or in construction zones.
Contacts and sources:
Coleen Torres
http://www.phonetvinternet.com/insider/10-safe-ways-to-use-the-internet-in-your-car/
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