Don’t Text and Drive

By now, everybody knows that cell phones and/or texting while driving can be a deadly distraction — right? Apparently not: Studies show that distracted driving is still a serious threat on the nation’s roads, and teens are the most at risk, because they tend to engage in this behavior more often than adult drivers.¹

‘Big brother’ may help 
But if technology is the villain, it also may be the answer, giving you ways to help stop your teen from texting while driving. Below is a sampling of downloadable apps and computer programs that may help prevent dangerous texting and driving. They vary in benefits and features. For instance, some allow the passenger complete access to his or her cell phone; some do not. Some involve set-up fees and ongoing monthly charges; others are free:

• iZUP — Holds texts, emails and phone calls while driving. Calls are sent to voice mail and text messages are delivered when the vehicle comes to a stop. Allows 911 calls and whitelisted or preapproved numbers.
• Textecution™ — Disables texting functions while driving. If your teen driver tries to disable or uninstall the application, you’re notified.
• StopTxting^® — A free, downloadable application for Android phones that prevents the sending or reading of texts or emails when vehicle is in motion.
• tXtBlocker™ — Stops texting while driving and allows you to set up “No Cell Zones” that limit cell phone use based on specific locations and times.
• Cellcontrol — Stops texting, emailing, Web surfing, gaming and even distracting phone calls whenever the vehicle is in motion. You are in control of what your teen driver can and cannot do while driving.

Take control
Software programs may help but in the end parents must take control. Talk to your teens about the dangers of driving distracted; set the rules and consequences for breaking them; and lead by example. Call me so you can be sure you have the coverage you want should an accident happen.

Note: Mention of any company name or product does not constitute an endorsement by Farmers Insurance Group, any of its affiliates or agents.

¹Source: http://www.distraction.gov