The picture is (obviously) a mobile phone. What I can never understand is why it’s always someone in a new Merc, Porsche or BMW that is behind the wheel nattering away with the handset cradled to their ear. Perhaps they think they’re above the law, like the woman with a 206 who lives near my mother. She does the same. So, I guess it’s less about what you drive and more about your attitude to safety. So, here’s a few recommendations for you regarding your mobile and driving:
Can I use my earpiece and wire with my mobile?
A hands free kit consisting of a wire and earpiece would only be legal if you did not have to touch the phone to dial a number or take a call. If your phone has voice recognition or Bluetooth capabilities you should use these and pre-programme numbers into your phone. Remember that trailing wires may cause a hazard whilst driving.
What about fully installed car kits?
A properly installed car kit fixed to the dashboard or ventilators is the safest way to take calls on the move. These kits should be fitted by a professional to ensure that all the wires are hidden, that the radio mutes automatically and (so that you don’t invalidate the car’s warranty) that the kit is not installed in front of an airbag.
Is it safe to talk on a mobile at all while driving?
Pressing buttons and talking on your phone will be legal if the phone is held in a secured cradle affixed to the dashboard and that there are no wires connected to an earpiece (see above). However, you could still be prosecuted for driving dangerously or without due care and attention and you should avoid making or taking calls at all times whilst driving.
How can I make safer calls?
- Turn off your phone before starting your journey and take any messages only when you are parked safely.
- Save any numbers you may need to a short dial number in your phone before starting your journey.
- Keep calls short and simple. Never enter into an argument or negotiation whilst on the move.
- If you do take a call tell the caller that you are driving and may need to break off your conversation suddenly if driving conditions become hazardous in any way.
Sometimes, it can be quite tempting to just sneak a quick look at your phone – but remember even at 30mph your car is a potentially lethal weapon should an incident occur with a pedestrian. The real truth is that just about anything that is a distraction from driving when you’re behind the wheel should really be avoided, such as eating, drinking, smoking or fiddling with gadgets like mobiles and GPS systems.
Leave a Reply