November 1, 2008
In recent years, new technologies have greatly improved the convenience and comfort of driving. From better ergonomics to doors that open by remote, we have benefited from this influx of features. But the growth of technology has come with a cost, and the cost is some entirely new ways to have accidents. Here are some new motoring mishaps and ways you can avoid them by driving smart with technology:
1. DVD Fender Bender
My wife doesn't like talking to me when I am watching television. I can't focus on what she is saying because I'm distracted. The same thing happens when I see a car next to me that has a DVD monitor. I don't care if it's kids watching an episode of "Barney," I instantly become hypnotized and I no longer give the road my full attention. We haven't seen a rash of movie-related fender benders. We might though, considering how easy it is to get lost in a moment of eye-catching television in the car next to us when we're traveling down the highway at 70 mph.
Solution:
Ignore the movies playing on DVD screens around you and focus on the only one that matters to you, "Honey, I Got to My Destination Safely."
2. Text Trouble
When cell phones came out, people speculated we'd see a major increase in traffic accidents. People feared after decades of phone-free driving, the highways would spiral into chaos as everyone focused on making calls instead of driving. Although our concerns were exaggerated, a new problem has emerged — text messaging. Driving with both hands on the wheel is a thing of the past. Now, people are typing on their phones and PDAs. With our mobile office approach, we can virtually recreate a work day in the span of a commute.
Solution:
Push "Pause" on your text temptation. Unless you're a brain surgeon communicating life and death instructions to the ER, chances are returning that text message can wait until you safely pull off the road.
3. Toll Booth Tie Up
There are no toll booths on my commute, but if there were, I would get an automatic pass that electronically scans me through. Instead of digging around for sticky coins, I could drive by at 30 mph without thinking twice. The problem is that when I do that, I often forget that a few feet away is a minivan that paid with cash going 5 mph. Suddenly, like opposite ends of two magnets, fast and slow are forced into the same space. The results can be disastrous.
Solution:
Treat the toll booth more like an intersection and less like a racetrack, keeping your eyes on other lanes that might be merging with you.
4. GPS Mess
It would be crazy to drive with a large map unfolded in your lap that you were constantly checking and cross referencing. In some ways though, when we gaze at a GPS screen, we're doing the same thing. That's what is so great about audio-equipped devices. Instead of forcing you to analyze reds and yellows or right and left turns, a robotically pleasant voice guides you. There's no staring or taking your eyes off the road. Just follow along with the verbal directions and you'll end up where you want to go instead of at a traffic accident.
Solution:
Plot out your course before you leave, go with an audio-equipped GPS or designate a passenger to monitor the GPS.
Technology is beautiful. New features can be exquisite, especially when combined with some tried-and-true safety rules. If you'd like to learn more about ways that technology is improving the safety of vehicles, please read Safety on a Budget. If you want to find a car that offers the features you care about, such as a navigation or DVD system, search AutoTrader.com.
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