When it comes to texting and driving It Can Wait!
This weekend the American Idol Tour is coming to Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. That means there will be many teens and their parents driving on the major highways in New Jersey heading to see the show. This also means there is potential for these excited young drivers to shoot a quick “On My Way” , “C U @ the Show “, or even a “What R U Up 2″ text to their friends. I will admit I have had my moments where I have sent a text while driving and have almost had an accident. I have become more diligent and will be signing the pledge as a reminder not only for myself but to set a good example for my children.
We need to educate or kids and show them It Can Wait! We can do that with the help of their favorite American Idol stars and this wonderful campaign from AT&T.
Get the facts about texting and driving
- Texting while driving is the most dangerous of all cell phone related activities while driving
- Those who send a text message while driving are 23 more times to have a crash
- In 2010, texting while driving had jumped a staggering 50% even with state laws become stricter
- 97 % of teens say texting while driving is dangerous ,but 43% admit to doing so.
We must change this!
While I no longer have a teen in my home driving I do have a 13-year-old who needs to understand the importance of this issue now so she is informed and makes good decisions when she starts driving in a few short years. Together along with her 21-year-old sister we will be sitting down as a family and watching The Last Text Documentary presented by AT&T and signing the pledge for the No Text & Drive campaign
Tips for Teens about Texting & Driving
- Be smart. Don’t text and drive. No text message is worth being distracted while you drive.
- Consider turning your phone off, setting it to silent or even storing it in the glove box before hitting the road.
- Be caring. Never send a text message to a friend who is driving to meet you, or to anyone you know is likely behind the wheel
- Be a BFF. Friends don’t let each other text and drive. Visit the AT&T Facebook page to take a pledge not to text and drive, and encourage your friends to do the same. You can also print and sign AT&T’s pledge
- Be Focused. Never use your phone to make a call, receive a call, take pictures, send and read messages, record video,or watch TV while driving
- If you receive a text or phone call wait until you have reached your destination to return the call or answer the text #ItCanWait
Tips for Adults about Texting & Driving
- Be a resource. Share information with your teen about the risks of texting while driving by visiting AT&T It Can Wait, hold a family meeting discussing the danger of texting and driving.
- Become familiar with your states cell phone laws in New Jersey it is illegal to drive a vehicle and use your cell phone in any way.
- Be an example. Don’t send the wrong message by texting while you drive. Your teen will follow your example. Always remember #ItCanWait
- Go over the AT&T pledge print, discuss and sign the Parent/Teen Pledge. And, if you’re on Facebook, visit the AT&T Facebook page to take the pledge online and encourage your friends (and family) to do the same.
- Don’t send a text when you know your teen is driving. Wait for them to call or text you once they have arrived safely at their destination.
- Know your options. AT&T Smart Limits offers parents an easy way to manage their teen’s cell phone and text messaging activity. Go to the Smart Limits site for more information on the program and any fees
- If you have teens, some wireless companies offer parents an easy way to manage their teen’s phone functionality, such as the time of day the phone can be used for messaging, Web browsing or outbound calling. However, 911 calls are always allowed and parents can also set up “allowed numbers” that the teens can call as parents or others deem appropriate.
Will you be attending the American Idol Tour?
At select stops including the Atlantic City Tour not only will AT&T will be offering on site activations, but they will be promoting this fantastic campaign. We are fortunate enough to have the tour simulator car being shown at Boardwalk Hall. Concert Goers will have the opportunity sit in the car and have a realistic look at the dangers of texting and driving. I am excited for young drivers and even those that are not quite of driving age to really learn how with the swipe of their finger hitting send life can change. It will be a bit scary for them I am sure , however it will be extremely eye opening for as well.
About Crystal Rodgers
