4 Smart Tips for Text-Free Driving

Let’s face it. We all love our smartphones. But, there’s a time and place for everything and texting and driving are never a good mix. Just check out these startling statistics shared by the Canadian Automobile Association:

  • Drivers who text are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash or near crash event compared with non-distracted drivers.

  • Checking a text for 5 seconds means that at 90 km/h, you’ve travelled the length of a football field blindfolded.

  • About 26% of all car crashes involve phone use, including hands-free phone use.

  • Researchers estimate that drivers using phones look at, but fail to see, up to 50% of the information in their driving environment.

Because we know how hard it can be to disconnect during your commute, here are our 4 best tips to help you master text-free driving.

1. Silence your phone

Put your phone in “do not disturb” mode while you’re driving so the notifications and ringer don’t tempt you when you’re behind the wheel.

2. Just put it away

Out of sight really is out of mind. Resist the temptation by putting your phone in your purse or in the glove compartment while you drive.

3. Use your passengers

No one loves a backseat driver, but a backseat texter could come in handy. Let your passengers respond to texts and answer calls for you if you feel it can’t wait until you reach your destination.

4. Download a prevention app

Still don’t trust yourself? There are several great apps you can download that will lock your phone whenever your car is in motion.

Remember, your kids, friends, and spouse all take a cue from watching your phone habits while driving. By letting calls go to voicemail or pulling over to respond to a text, you send a clear message that safety is your #1 priority.

Have any questions? We can help.

Contact us—we can help you access and use your MyMills portal and app.
Tollfree: 800-953-0999   Phone: 416-489-5570    Email: contactus@millsinsurancebrokers.ca