We know that talking on the phone while driving or texting while driving is distracting. But how distracting is it?

In a short test they conducted they found that texting and talking on the phone while driving was actually more dangerous when it came to stopping distances than drunk driving. Other studies have come to the same conclusion. This is a staggering fact given that most of the laws in Michigan focus on drunk driving.

The new texting while driving law serves as a slap on the wrist compared to much stricter drunk driving laws. If texting while driving is more dangerous than drunk driving, shouldn’t there be tougher penalties? It seems that the law is yet to catch up to this new technology.

Michigan should be commended, however, for at least having a texting while driving law. There are still 20 states that do not have laws at all when it comes to texting while driving. The next step will be tougher penalties and better enforcement.

The $100 fine for a first offense in Michigan is small in comparison to what a drunk driving ticket involves once you tack on legal fees. By increasing fines and penalties for texting while driving, Michigan law could try to deter people from this behavior. This would also encourage people to use hands free devices or new technology allowing you to text hands free by voice commands.

Enforcement mechanisms are also easier than you probably think. Devices that detect outgoing radiofrequency signals are cost effective and reliable. Studies also suggest that officers using the naked eye are reliable and effective. If texting while driving and talking on the phone while driving are more dangerous than drunk driving, shouldn’t our laws and enforcement policies reflect it?

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Safety Tips for the winter:

1. Get car battery checked to make sure it is in good working order.

2. Keep a 1/4 tank of gas in the car to keep lines from freezing.

3. Change AntiFreeze to make sure it is good in very cold weather.

4. Keep extra jackets, gloves and boots in the trunk in case the car breaks down.

5. Make sure flares are fresh and in proper working order.

6. Keep jumper cables in your trunk.

7. Carry extra windshield wiper cleaner in vehicle.

8. Keep extra blankets in the trunk to keep warm in case of an emergency.

9. Keep a cell phone on your person at all times, so you can call for help.

10. Do not allow small children to leave in cars without the proper cold weather gear, even if only for short trips. Anything can happen in cold weather.

Related Posts: Dangers of Distracted Driving….., Bus and Child Safety, Motorcycle Helmets Save Lives in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Now that school is back in session, bus and pedestrian safety is extremely important.

Here are some tips to keep yourself and your children safe during the school year:

1. For drivers of other vehicles approaching a bus; flashing bus lights on top, Yellow: Slow down. Red: STOP!

2. Teach children to never approach a moving bus. Cross in front of a bus only when the bus is completely stopped and the driver can see them. Even if they are running to catch the bus. Never attempt to cross in front of a moving bus.

3. If it is necessary to cross in front of the bus, make sure it is done far enough away so that the bus driver can see the child.

4. Teach children to use crosswalks with caution and to make sure the driver of other vehicle sees them before they start crossing in front of them.

5. Teach children to use crosswalk signals properly.

6. Make sure vehicles are completely stopped before crossing in front of them.

7. Drivers of vehicles, be mindful of smaller children at bus stops, as they are not much taller than a bumper. Parents can get distracted and children can wander away. If you are unsure, get out of your vehicle and make sure it is clear before backing out of a parking space on the roadway.

8. When visibility is poor or conditions are slippery take extra care in and around schools, cross walks and bus stops where children will be likely present.

9. Teach children to be more cautious when crossing the street when visibility is poor and/or conditions are slippery.

10. Engage in active conversations with your children about these safety issues on a regular basis to keep them mindful of the dangers.

Related Posts: Dangers of Distracted Driving….., Driver Safety in Winter, Part I, Motorcycle Helmets Save Lives in Motor Vehicle Accidents