Cell Phone Safety

Every day, cellular telephones are used to call for assistance in the event of a vehicle breakdown or other personal emergency. The use of cellular telephones can also be distracting and directly or indirectly lead to motor vehicle accidents.

Tips for talking and driving safely:

1. Make sure your cell phone is positioned where it is accessible.
2. Be familiar with the operation of the telephone, so that you are comfortable using it on the road.
3. It is best to dial the telephone when the vehicle is not moving, such as at a stop sign or stop light.
4. Use a hands-free microphone while driving.
5. Use the speed dialing feature to program in frequently called numbers. This enables the user to make a call by touching only one or two buttons.
6. Never take notes while driving. Pull off the road to jot something down. Many mobile phones have an electronic sketch pad that allows keying in a new number while having a conversation.
7. Let the wireless network's voice mail pick up calls when it's inconvenient or unsafe to answer the phone. You can even use your voice mail to leave yourself reminders.
8. Use the voice activated dialing feature to place a call. Simply say the name, such as "home" or "office" to be immediately connected to personal directory listings.
9. Be a Cellular Samaritan. Dialing 911 is usually free for cellular subscribers. Use it to report crimes in progress, potentially life-threatening emergencies, accidents or drunk driving.
10. All cellular 911 calls go to the California Highway Patrol. Please tell the dispatcher what city you are in.