Posted on Jun 07, 2017

Picture pf a woman talking on the phone with text Do not distrub while driving

It’s not news that people are easily distracted. In our ever-connected lives, it’s increasingly difficult to ignore our mobile devices when they ring, vibrate or light up. But when we get behind the wheel, these distractions put lives in danger. After public pressure to develop an iPhone feature that helps deter distracted driving, Apple has announced the inclusion of its new “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode in the newest iOS 11 operating system.

Do Not Disturb While Driving

Once the Do Not Disturb mode is activated, the iPhone will recognize when you may be driving and automatically mute all notifications. This includes calls, texts and push notifications from other apps such as FaceTime, Snapchat or games. Users may even set up an automatic reply to tell contacts that they are driving and will get back to them when they arrive. But like the popular augmented reality game Pokémon GO, the feature includes an override switch meant for vehicle passengers, which could be utilized by a motorist determined to text and drive.

The Cost of Distracted Driving

Features like the Do Not Disturb While Driving mode provide a simple way for motorists to keep their attention focused on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,477 people were killed, and an estimated 391,000 more were injured, in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2015. To combat this, texting while driving is banned in 46 states and 14 states ban the use of all handheld devices while driving. Laws like these are often not enough. We all need to make a real effort to encourage ourselves, our friends and our family members not to drive while distracted.

Unfortunately, some drivers will ignore new features like Apple’s Do Not Disturb mode and continue to cause distracted driving accidents. Because of this, we must continue to spread our safe driving message. Request a free “DNT TXT N DRV” bumper sticker from Hupy and Abraham today and help us remind drivers to keep their eyes on the road. You can also ask your family and friends to Take the Pledge to never text and drive!

In the event that you or a loved one is injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, Hupy and Abraham is here to help. Contact us at 800-800-5678 or start a live chat 24/7 at Hupy.com

Jill Erin Wellskopf
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Director of Marketing, Hupy and Abraham