THREE Cheers for the TRIPLETS

 

Three triplets in Seekonk, Mass have made the commitment to refrain from texting and driving; and has taken on the challenge to require the same commitment from others in their community.  Matthew, Timothy and Brian Salit passion against texting and driving started when a track competitor of theirs from another school was killed by a texting driving.  One of the triplets, Timothy, explained: "It really started making us think: this is a problem that's going to haunt us if we don't stop this now.”

The Salit triplets organized the Massachusetts Distracted Driving Summit on last weekend at the State House in Boston.  Students from 25 different high schools took part in the summit by volunteering and going through the distracted driving training, which included a texting and driving simulator. 

It is inspiring to hear that people, young and old, are being to take the issue of distracted driving seriously.  It is even more inspiring when these individuals are not personally (relative, friends, etc) effect by its dangers, but take time out of their lives to bring awareness about its dangers. 

THREE cheers for the TRIPLETS of Seekonk, Massachusetts, we appreciate you!!!
Reference: WPRI 12

Siri Is At It Again: Apple & Honda Team Up On The Highway

Apple has done it again! Siri continues to make an impact on every industry throughout the world.  Honda has now integrated support for Apple’s Siri digital assistant for owners who have compatible iPhones in some of the 2013 models.  According to Honda, the integration will also include the 2013 Acura RDX and ILX; and the iPhone device will need to be running at least the iOS6 system.  Assistant Vice President of Automobile Product Planning Vicki Poponi said:

“iPhone has become so integral to people’s lives that they continue to use them in their vehicles. Offering Honda and Acura owners Siri and its Eyes Free mode via Bluetooth is an incredible opportunity to provide next-generation connectivity and meet our customer’s ever-changing needs.”

Apple designers explain that the Eyes Free Mode works in connection with the vehicle’s voice control systems, and it I this that allows the driver to speak a specific command without having to look at the phone or press any buttons.  Already aboard The BMWs, the mode includes asking Siri to send text messages, call contacts, find directions, read app notifications, and check and record calendar and reminder information.  Furthermore, a special feature of the Eyes Free Mode keeps the phone’s screen from lighting up, which minimizes the likelihood of a driver becoming distracted from looking down at the phone.

What does this mean for our roads?  As we have seen since the development of Siri, she has made it easier for those individuals who cannot seem to part with their phones while driving, a simpler, and safer way to communicate while driving.  For those of us who are committed to distracted-driving free roadways Siri has become a potential dream come true; and with the integration in economy cars, Apple continues to set itself apart from the rest.

The only question now is, will drivers take advantage?  Would you buy a car simply for its hands-free capabilities?  Tell us what you think!  

Distracted Runway 1.0... Model for a CAUSE

Typically I take the time out to blog about interesting distracted driving stories or facts I've come across, but this week's blog will go to something that's equally important for non-profit organizations... FUNDRAISING!!!  I am not sure who came up with the bright idea to include "fun" in the word, because if you have ever done it, sometimes it can be anything but that.  However, C.L.I.F. has decided its time to put the "fun" back and "fundraiser" and collect some money to support a cause bring awareness to distracted driving across the country.  C.L.I.F. is holding two model calls for the public to become involved in the first every "Distracted Runway" Fundraiser Fashion Show held on March 23, 2013!!! Monies raised will benefit the Clifton B. Gibbs Scholarship Fund. CHECK IT OUT!! You might be glad you did!

For more information about the model calls or the show please visit our website at www.clif2012.org or email us at collegiatelifeinvestmentfond@gmail.com

And remember... #ItsJustNotWorthIt

TDOT Fatality Ticker

In the earlier months of 2012, the Tennessee Department of Transportation began to use the electronic signs above the highways to display a continuous ticker of the number of traffic fatalities throughout the state.  The signs were intended to increase highway safety throughout the state.  The result of a grieving mother whose son was killed a few years prior in a traffic accident, the electronic reminders were the topic of several controversial conversations.  Although intentions were positives, drivers across the states felt that the tickers caused more harm than help.  Several reported accidents were the result of drivers being distracted by the signs.  In addition, some drivers felt the signs were a continuous reminder of who they lost on the roadways, versus honoring their memories.  Either way the TDOT commissioner has decided to only show the numbers on Fridays rather than on a daily basis.  The department also will use the sign to continuous highway safety awareness by displaying messages discouraging texting while driving, drunk driving, seat belt safety, construction information, and other important traffic message. 

Tennessee drivers, how do you feel about the new decision made about the TDOT fatality ticker?  Do you feel that it helps bring highway safety awareness or should it be removed all together?

from other US states, what do you think?  Does your department of transportation have some type of program similar to the one in Tennessee?  If not, would you appreciate one being implemented?

Remember, #ItsJustNotWorthIt 

What Type of Distracter Are You?

The term "Distracted Driving" has just recently started to stick in the brains of drivers everywhere.  Before, people used "texting and driving" and "distracted driving" as interchangeable terms.  However, because distracted driving continues to cause problems on the road ways, more and more people are becoming aware of what distracted driving is and what it can consist of.

All distractions that drivers engage in while driving can fit in three main categories: Visual, Manual, and Mental.

Visual distractions involves activities that cause the driver to take his/her eyes off the road.  This type of distraction is commonly associated with applying facial make-up or looking for an item in the car.  

Manual distractions involves the driver taking his/her hands off the wheel while driving.    This type of distraction is commonly associated with eating or drinking while driving; at which point drivers tend to use their knees to steer the wheel.

Mental, also known as cognitive distractions involves taking your mind off the act of driving. This type of distraction is commonly associated with talking on the phone while driving.  A driver's mind is so focus on the conversation, he/she is usually unaware of what is happening on the roads.

So I ask, which type of distracter are you?  Let me help... if you text and drive, you are ALL three!!

Remember, #ItsJustNotWorthIt

Wisconsin Teens Paying the “Cheese” for Texting and Driving

The Cheese State has passed a law prohibiting all cell phone use drivers, while operating a motor vehicle.  Although Wisconsin law currently prohibits texting while driving, the new law provisions targets young driver statewide ages 18 and under, but also focuses on any drivers with probationary licensing.  This includes drivers who previous license was in another country, new residents to the state with less than three years of driving experience and/or under the age of 21, and citizens with suspended permits and/or licenses.  The law bans the use of cell phone usage will driving, whether a hands-free accessory accompanies it.  The fines under the new provisions range from $20 - $40 for the first offense and $50 - $100 for subsequent convictions within the same year.  The governor signed the law late March, and it took full effect throughout the state on November 1, 2012.         

Is this enough?  Granted Wisconsin has taken some initiative where other states have not, but as safe drivers, we must question is this a satisfactory solution?  Although teens/young adults statically engage in distracted driving practices more than any other age group that does not mean that they are the sole source.  Is it asking too much to require the same expectations of teens and young adults as we do their parents? 

The fines put in place in Wisconsin and several states across the nation do not seem to put much pressure on distract drivers to put down the phone.  There are parking tickets that cost more than $40, and speeding ticket prices drastically surpass $500 - $100.  This being the case, are lawmakers really taking distracted driving as a serious issue?  What do you think?

Top Ten Most Dangerous Foods

According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the top ten most dangerous foods are:

1. Coffee. Even with a travel lid, hot coffee can find its way out of the opening when you hit a bump.

2. Hot soup. Many people drink it like coffee and run the same risks.

3. Tacos. Any food that can disassemble itself will leave your car looking like a salad bar.

4. Chili dogs. Huge potential for drips and slops down the front of clothing.

5. Hamburgers. From the grease to the toppings, it could end up on your hands and the steering wheel.

6. Ribs and wings. What's more distracting than licking your fingers?

7. Fried chicken. More greasy hands. You've got to wipe them off while you're driving.

8. Jelly donuts. It's not possible to eat one without watching the center ooze out.

9. Soda. Carbonation. Fizz in the nose. Lids that leak. Disaster.

10. Chocolate. Try to clean melted chocolate off the steering wheel without swerving.

INTERESTING!! How does this list match yours?