BMW loves the open road and the joy that getting behind the wheel bring to so many people. Its why they make such incredible automobiles. But BMW has expressed concern about what they love, too many accidents are occurring on a regular basis because of distracted drivers. This is why BMW has publically asked driver everywhere to put their cell phones down and concentrate on driving when behind the wheel. This means no more texting, and it applying to every age group.
Many drivers out there think they have a handle on texting while driving, but even the most skilled multi-taskers can still end up in a fatal accident caused by a momentary lapse of concentration. The American Automobile Association has stated that when drivers take their eyes off the road for even two seconds, drivers double their chances for a crash. Statistics from 2008 indicate that distracted driving may be responsible for over 500,000 police-reported accidents. A number that is far too high.
To help reduce this number and make driving safer for everyone on the road, BMW of Southampton would like to offer up some really common sense best practices to ensure you make it to your destination safely.
- Power off your phone before putting the keys in the ignition
- If you think you'll be tempted to power it back on, hide it in the trunk
- Advise family, friends and co-workers of your whereabouts before embarking on a longer trip
- If you must communicate or rely on a navigation system, turn to advanced technologies designed keep your attention where it should be - on the steering wheel and the road.
Do you have any other tricks you use to avoid the urge to text and drive?
Share them with BMW of Southampton and all of our drivers from Smithtown, Bay Shore & Hampton Bays, NY via a comment below or the BMWUSA Facebook page.