31
March
2023
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19:30 PM
Europe/Amsterdam

UScellular Offers Tips to Help Prevent Distracted Driving

CHICAGO (April 1, 2023) – Each year, more than 3,000 people die in car crashes involving a distracted driver. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and UScellular is providing tips and resources for consumers on built-in phone features, apps and other resources to help drivers stay focused and prevent distracted driving.

UScellular is offering the following tips to help drivers remain focused and alert while driving.

  • Get situated before setting out. Mobile devices serve as a resource for music, driving directions and more. Before hitting the road, get connected to CarPlay or Bluetooth if able, then set the phone out of the way or use one of many mounting devices available on the market, like the Scosche 3-in-1 Universal Car Mount for Smartphones. Drivers should confirm sightlines are clear and their hands are not touching their device before heading out. 
  • Use Focus Mode. Built-in phone features are available to help drivers stay focused on the road. Driving Focus and Driving Mode can be utilized on iPhones and Android phones, respectively. This mode uses a “do not disturb” feature by limiting notifications, calls and texts when driving. Individuals sending a message will see that the driver has silenced notifications or receive an automatic reply, depending on settings. Incoming calls are only allowed when connected to CarPlay, Bluetooth or a hands-free accessory, and individuals can ask their smartphone digital assistant – like Siri or Bixby – to read replies. Explore these modes to see all the features, settings and allowances. 
  • Take advantage of apps. A wide range of applications are available to help eliminate distractions, focus on the road and track locations. OnMyWay allows drivers to earn money for every mile they do not text or use distracting apps while driving. Location-sharing apps such as Life360 and GeoZilla Family Locator can monitor driving speeds and phone usage and even detect accidents.
  • Establish rules of the road for new drivers. For parents of teens or young adults, a simple yet effective step is to establish rules and expectations with loved ones prior to hitting the road. UScellular’s Digital Family Matters website offers a free, customizable Parent-Child Agreement to help aid in this process. Families can outline rules for phone usage while driving – such as not texting and driving, keeping location apps active and other important details like curfews and nighttime driving limitations. Another approach to help young drivers understand the seriousness of driving while distracted is by discussing state laws on distracted driving and the penalties and consequences it causes.
  • Encourage safe, responsible driving behavior from the passenger seat. Passengers also have the power to help stop distracted driving behavior. Speak up if a driver appears to be distracted and ask them to focus on driving. Help reduce distractions by recommending alternatives, like offering to text or navigate on behalf of the driver.

To learn more about this topic and how to utilize available resources, go to digitalfamilymatters.com and drivesmart.ctia.org.

About UScellular
UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has pledged to provide hotspots and service to help up to 50,000 youth connect to reliable internet. Additionally, UScellular has price protected all of its plans, promising not to increase prices through at least the end of 2024. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, visit newsroom.uscellular.com.