In today's fast-paced world, distracted driving is a big concern. From checking texts to scrolling through social media, distracted driving poses significant risks to road safety. Fortunately technology can be used to our advantage in helping combat and prevent this issue, and we’ve seen innovative solutions that aim to mitigate distracted driving risks.
Let's explore some of the emerging tech options that can help promote safer driving habits.
In-Car Systems
Many automobile manufacturers now offer in-car systems specifically designed to minimize distractions while driving. These systems integrate with smartphones, allowing drivers to access essential features like calls, navigation, and music through voice commands or steering wheel controls. By keeping drivers' attention focused on the road ahead, in-car systems effectively reduce the likelihood of accidents resulting from distracted driving. Some advanced models even incorporate gesture control and head-up display technology to provide vital information while minimizing distraction.
Another technological breakthrough in preventing distracted driving comes in the form of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These systems utilize sensors, cameras, and algorithms to detect potential risks and assist drivers in avoiding accidents. Features like lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking actively work to keep drivers alert and mitigate distractions that can lead to accidents. ADAS not only acts as a safety net but also serves as a valuable reminder for drivers to remain focused and attentive while on the road.
AI is also playing a significant role in combating distracted driving. AI-powered solutions can analyze driver behavior and identify signs of distraction, such as erratic steering or sudden deceleration. Real-time alerts can be generated to remind drivers to refocus their attention on the road. Additionally, AI-based camera systems can monitor drivers' eye movements and detect signs of drowsiness or distraction, triggering appropriate warnings to ensure immediate corrective action is taken.
Phone Settings & Apps
Although many newer makes and models of vehicles offer the built-in safety functionally as we discussed above, older vehicles won’t be as well off but we can use smartphones to our advantage! Most newer model iOS and Android devices come equipped with modes that allow for less distraction while driving. These modes can be set to start automatically and, in some cases, can be customized for what distractions are enabled or disabled.
Driving Focus is the iOS “drive mode”:
“With iOS 15 and later, the Driving Focus helps you stay focused on the road. When you turn it on, text messages and other notifications are silenced or limited. When you have the Driving Focus set up, you can ask Siri to read replies to you, so you don't have to lo
ok at your iPhone. Incoming calls are allowed only when iPhone is connected to CarPlay, a car Bluetooth system, or a hands-free accessory.”
Android Auto is the Android “drive mode”:
“Android Auto brings apps to your car display so you can focus while you drive. You can control features like navigation, maps, calls, text messages, and music. Your phone starts driving mode within a minute of when it connects to a car or it thinks it's in a moving car.”
If you have an older model of smartphone that isn’t compatible with a driving mode, you can download phone apps to become powerful tools in the fight against distracted driving. These applications can detect when a vehicle is in motion and automatically enable "do not disturb" mode, which silences incoming notifications and prevents distractions. Some apps even offer features like automated text message responses, allowing drivers to let contacts know they are currently unavailable via voice command. By making it easier for drivers to resist the temptation of using their phones while driving, these apps significantly reduce distracted driving.
Two apps that we recommend are LifeSaver and Drivemode. Lifesaver locks the phone once driving is detected to deter distractions. Drivemode simplifies how you manage calls and messages while driving by offering a streamlined interface to safely answer calls or send and hear messages. Drivemode has easy-to-use voice-enabled commands and large buttons so drivers can focus on the road.
Drivers that hold a Class 7L or 7N licence are prohibited from using any hands-free devices or system so while these apps are great for fully licensed drivers, new drivers should be putting their phone away while driving and avoiding it as a distraction altogether.
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Whether you’re a new driver, who should be building safe driving behaviours and habits, or an experienced driver who may need to improve their habits, avoiding distracted driving is for everyone. By integrating new tech into everyday driving practices and behaviours, drivers can reduce distracted driving and create a safer environment for everyone on the road.