INDUSTRY INSIDER
SAFETY COMES FIRST WHEN USING AUTOMOTIVE APPS
W ith more than three million iPhones and Android devices, phone apps have been integrated into every aspect of people’s lives — including driving.
Whether you’re doing your daily commute or are on the road for a cross-country trip, phone apps have the potential to enhance every part of your driving experience.
To start, if you have an older model vehicle, apps can help you upgrade to more advanced safety features.
For example, iOnRoad uses your phone camera to keep track of vehicles and objects around your car and alert you to any hazards. Features include an advanced collision warning system and speeding alerts.
Apps can help those on the market to buy a new vehicle, too. For instance, Kelley Blue Book can be used to find information on different makes and models and locate the nearest dealership where these models are offered, while Cars. com can be used to see consumer reviews.
Many manufacturers are also starting to release companion apps that can be integrated into your new vehicle, such as Ford Mobile or Infiniti Connect. These apps do everything from tracking fuel levels to scheduling maintenance appointments.
Apps can help avoid bad traffic areas and improve navigation as well.
Waze has more than 50 million users who share real-time information about heavy traffic areas, speed traps, construction areas and more. It also has a turn-by-turn navigation system and even notifies you when a Facebook friend is heading to the same destination.
When you’re running low on gas, apps can help you find a refill. Apps like GasBuddy use your phone’s GPS function along with user-submitted pricing to find the best gas prices in your area. Even if you drive an electric vehicle, you’re in luck. PlugShare, Green Charge and similar apps help you locate the nearest charging station.
Apps can also help out once you’ve reached your destination. If you always forget where your vehicle is, apps such as Honk and Find My Car use your phone’s GPS to record the location where you’ve parked and help you find your way back to your car when you’re ready to leave.
However, it must be noted that while smartphones can help you with navigating and other aspects on the road, they also contribute to distracted driving.
Using smartphones while behind the wheel has been proven to contribute to road vehicle crashes and accidents. The Institute of Advanced Motorists is U.K.’s leading road-safety charity. Using a driving simulation, it found the reaction times of people using phones while driving slowed by 38 per cent.
When using any of these apps, make sure to pull over to a safe area or give your phone to a passenger.