Distracted driving claimed 3,308 deaths and an estimated 289,310 injuries across the U.S. in 2022, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In many cases, just a quick glance at a phone can lead to a life-changing accident. To help reduce these dangers, Apple introduced iPhone Driving Mode, a feature designed to limit distractions and support safer driving habits.
At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating distracted driving accidents can be. That’s why we’re sharing relevant information to prevent distracted driving accidents caused by cell phone use, especially on the busy roads of New Hyde Park and throughout Long Island.
Apple’s Safe Driving Mode for iPhones
As distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of car accidents in New York, features like Apple’s iPhone Driving Mode are becoming essential tools for promoting safer roads. This feature minimizes smartphone distractions by limiting notifications, calls, and texts while driving. For drivers in areas like New Hyde Park, this tool can be crucial in avoiding accidents and staying compliant with local traffic laws.
What is iPhone Driving Mode and How Does it Work?
Driving Mode, also called Do Not Disturb While Driving (DNDWD), helps reduce distractions by silencing notifications, calls, and alerts while you’re on the road. It can activate automatically through motion detection or a car’s Bluetooth connection, or you can enable it manually via the Control Center. This feature minimizes interruptions, restricts app usage, and sends auto-reply messages, promoting safe driving habits as part of Apple’s commitment to road safety.
Here’s how it works:
- Automatic Activation: Turns on when the iPhone detects movement or connects to car Bluetooth.
- Manual Control: Easily enabled through the Control Center or settings.
- Auto-Reply Messages: Sends pre-set responses to texts while the mode is active.
- Restrictive Features: Blocks notifications and limits app access to minimize distractions.
This mode operates seamlessly to support a safer driving experience, helping drivers stay focused on the road.
How to Set up “Do Not Disturb While Driving” on iPhone IOS 11
Unlike prior operating systems that just allowed users to choose ‘do not disturb,’ the new system will offer three distinct ways to use the feature:
- Manually, just like before;
- Automatically, as soon as the iPhone detects a vehicle in motion; OR
- Upon being paired with a car’s Bluetooth.
To make a selection, the user goes to Settings > Do not disturb > Do not disturb while driving. From there, users choose from one of three options listed above. Apple says new phones featuring IOS 11 and existing users who first install the new operating system will be prompted to make a selection once the phone detects a vehicle in motion.
Benefits of Using iPhone Driving Mode for New York Drivers
Using the iPhone Driving Mode can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by distracted driving in New York.
Even a brief distraction can have serious consequences in high-traffic areas like New Hyde Park. Enabling this feature protects you and demonstrates a proactive approach to road safety.
Key benefits include:
- Compliance with State Laws: New York’s strict distracted driving laws prohibit handheld phone use while operating a vehicle. Using iPhone Driving Mode supports adherence to these regulations.
- Fewer Distractions: Suppresses visual and auditory alerts that could divert your attention.
- Peace of Mind: Auto-replies reduce pressure to respond immediately, especially while commuting or driving in congested areas.
- Parental Controls: Parents can use this feature to encourage safe driving habits among teen drivers.
Incorporating this tool into daily driving routines shows responsibility and helps prevent legal liabilities in the event of an accident.
What About Passengers in the Vehicle?
Passengers can easily turn off the feature. The new operating system does not lock users out of their phones or prohibit any basic functions; it allows users to choose the setting that suits them best. When set to manual, users will have to make a deliberate choice each time they get behind the wheel. Similarly, with the Bluetooth option, the feature does nothing unless paired to Bluetooth.
So, the automatic feature is the only one that truly allows the phone to “pre-empt” distraction by silencing incoming calls, messages, and notifications. For this reason, it seems this would be the best setting to use if someone really wants to avoid the temptation to answer calls or check notifications while driving. According to the company, emergency notifications are still allowed, and people who need to reach a user can send a message stating “Urgent.” This gives the iPhone user the option to pull over and return the text or phone call. Apple offers a more comprehensive guide to the feature on their site.
iPhone Driving Mode and Car Accidents: How This Feature Can Protect You
iPhone Driving Mode can be a crucial line of defense in avoiding preventable car accidents caused by distraction.
According to Legal Clarity, New York state laws explicitly ban the use of handheld electronic devices while driving, with penalties including fines and points on your license. Activating this feature on your iPhone reduces your risk of legal consequences and demonstrates responsible conduct behind the wheel.
For drivers involved in a collision, proving the use of iPhone Driving Mode can even serve as supporting evidence that you were not distracted, which could be beneficial in a personal injury claim. Conversely, if another driver caused an accident while distracted by their phone, it may impact liability and the strength of your case.
Key protections offered by this feature:
- Supports Legal Defense: Demonstrates safe driving habits.
- Reduces Crash Risk: Fewer alerts = more focus.
Encourages Safer Roads: Contributes to lowering overall accident rates in your community.
Will Using “Do Not Disturb While Driving” Help Avoid Car Accidents in Long Island?
It is hard to know whether the new iPhone technology will have a significant impact on distracted driving collisions. For one, the feature appears to be unique to Apple for the time being. Apple users account for a little over 40% of smartphone users in the U.S. While significant, that still leaves a lot of people without this feature. Likewise, it remains to be seen just how many people are willing to use the setting.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? Contact our Long Island Car Accident Attorneys Today!
Our personal injury lawyers in Long Island routinely help people injured in automobile collisions, and cell phone distractions remain one of the biggest reasons people are seriously injured in in wrecks. If you are injured by a distracted driver, there are strict limits on the time you have to pursue compensation for your injuries. If you are injured, schedule a free consultation with the experienced personal injury attorneys at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP by calling (516) 358-6900.
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