These are the only reasons you’ll ever need to use your phone on the road!
Over the last decade or so smartphones have become ever-present in just about every facet of life, to the extent that many of us are seldom seen without one in hand. Given society’s near pathological dependence on these hyper-connected devices, they’ve certainly endured their fair share of criticism for those concerned about their impact on concentration, and understandably so.
Despite strict regulations and harsh penalties in force, many South Africans remain largely undeterred, continuing to chat, update statuses and record voice notes while behind the wheel, using smartphones to east the frustration caused by ever-increasing traffic country-wide.
The implications of such behaviours may be catastrophic. The International Transport Forum’s 2013 Road Safety Annual Report says South African experiences 32 accidents per 100,000 people per year, with around 25% of those accidents caused by cell phone use while driving.
Yet, while the dangers of mobile usage on the roads are well documented and widely discussed, the pros of being connected while behind the wheel seldom grab the headlines. However, if used responsibly, smart phones can in fact be of great use to drivers, in some cases serving as the key difference between life and death in emergency situation.
Here are just a few reasons to ensure your cell phone is charged and on hand before you next set out on the open road:
Maps at your fingertips
Mobile phones have rendered maps irrelevant, and thanks to in-built GPS systems, now allow you to navigate your journey in the safest and most efficient way possible. Not only do the turn-by-turn directions ensure you don’t end up off the beaten path, but real time traffic information also enables you to avoid congested situations and reach your destination timeously.
Panic button
Sadly, South Africa can be an unsafe place, and as such, it’s vital that we have a lifeline to friends, families and emergency services on hand at all times. In the event of a hijacking or accident, a mobile phone is an instant connection to the outside world, allowing you to summon help at the touch of a button.
Get the 411
Should you find yourself in an accident, your mobile phone offers more than just a lifeline – in fact, it can end up making a huge difference to your insurance claim down the line. Whether you’re a victim or the culprit, your phone gives you access to all the information you need to knos – from which details you’ll need to know – from which details you’ll need to course from the other party to your rights in the given scenario. There are a number of helpful apps on the market, so make sure they’re installed on your smartphone.
Documentation
Thanks to increasingly sophisticated built-in camera technology, mobile phones can now be effectively used to document and record an accident scene, allowing those involved to preserve vital information which might later be required by authorities. Additionally, should you spot something suspicious or need to describe a criminal to law enforcement officials, your mobile phone enables you to discreetly record for future use.
Also read: Understanding your blue light rights
Track and Trace
Should you find yourself lost, or in an accident and unaware of your location, your phone is a handy accessory to have. Your phone can alert authorities of your exact location, making any required rescue operation far more efficient and effective.
Remember that, while it’s important to keep your phone on when you’re on the open road, it’s imperative that it’s used responsibly and only when necessary. That spontaneous, on-the-go Facebook selfie could end up being something you regret for a lifetime.
Via MiWay