Mobile phone distraction could soon be a thing of the past

NOT a van story as such but definitely something that could be immensely beneficial to anyone running a small business or SME.

We all spend a lot of time using hand-held devices, especially if you use one to run your business. There are a lot of people whose business relies on being in constant contact with their customers. Fine if you are stationary, but that isn’t always the case.

Whether you are a plumber, builder, delivery driver, or any of a million other occupations that require you to travel between sites, a mobile phone distraction whilst driving is not only dangerous, it could leave you facing significant fines or even the loss of your license and livelihood.

Which is why a group of road charities and organisations have written to the likes of Android and Microsoft asking them to incorporate an automatic driving mode into their devices.

If you are an iPhone user Apple has already revealed that its iOS 11 update – due this week – will include a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode.

The letter asks the manufacturers to consider an automatic function that detects when the user is driving and shuts down certain functions to prevent distractions. This would prevent calls, texts, and push notifications being displayed, instead responding automatically to let people know you are driving and will respond when it’s safe to do so.

This could be overridden if the device was connected to a hands-free system that allows safe operation whilst driving. Otherwise your phone would be inactive until you are stationary again.

There are an estimated 11 million UK drivers who have admitted to making or receiving calls or texts, or even taking photos and videos, whilst behind the wheel. Given that mobile phone distraction can mean you are four times more likely to be involved in an accident this is clearly not a good idea. Studies have even shown that the mere fact your phone is ringing can distract you enough to increase the risk.

If the manufacturers take note – which they probably will – you will be able to stay in touch without risking a fine, or worse. An automatic driving mode could also be used to provide evidence that could potentially lead to lower insurance premiums.

As we said, not necessarily a van story but if this could make roads safer, keep you in touch, stop you forking out on fines, and reduce your insurance premiums, you’d have to be mad not to consider using it..