Bluetooth Accessories for Safer Driving

Driving while talking on the phone, texting, or otherwise engaging a mobile device is extremely dangerous. A review of studies by the Ontario Medical Association found cell phone use while driving contributes to slower reaction time, reduced monitoring of mirrors and instruments, and slower responses to traffic lights. The scariest part of this is the comparison with studies of drunk drivers.

A .08% blood alcohol reading yields on average the same changes as driving while using a mobile device. One solution is the mobile headset. Unfortunately, a large number of mobile headsets still require pushing buttons on the phone. They're great for taking a call while shuffling papers, but not so great behind the wheel.

Bluetooth Options for Driving

Most autos manufactured after 2006 are pre-equipped with Bluetooth capability. The advantage over traditional headsets is Bluetooth's almost completely hands-free operation. Advances in voice recognition provide the most complete package by eliminating the need for buttons altogether. Take a look at some of the after-market technology, and be sure to preview any new devices if possible.

• BlueAnt S4 Voice-Activated Bluetooth Speaker

This portable device utilizes the latest in voice recognition software. It clips on quickly to the auto visor and remains out of the way. The built-in speaker announces incoming calls as well as identifying the caller, so there's no looking away to focus on a screen.

• Plantronics K100 Bluetooth In-Car Speakerphone

This is another device that attaches quickly to the visor, but it also differs in some interesting ways. It is button-controlled, which is a slight downside compared to other models. Audio is delivered through the auto's speaker system, and you can control how loud it is by adjusting the car's speaker volume. Buttons are designed to minimize searching, so you can maintain focus on the road.

• Jabra Cruiser2

Similar to the K100, buttons provide means of accessing calls and switching between speaker and headset. Each charge lasts about 14 hours. Dual speakers deliver the best sound in the industry for the design. The Cruiser2 saves time on installation, so you won't get the car-speaker connection. However, you can wirelessly stream audio to the car speakers via MP3 pairing and AD2P technology. This device delivers verbal instructions, GPS directions, and even recharge alerts.

Precautions Still Apply

Those same studies mentioned earlier note that hands-free talking is not a catch-all solution. Hands-free driving introduces the same risks as taking a hand off the wheel and eyes off the road. Since having a wreck is potentially fatal, and at the very least increases your car insurance premium, it is worth considering why hands-free talking can be dangerous. The first risk comes in the brief moment of selecting a name from the speed-dial list.

Another concern is the call's content. If you receive a call on your S4, which means no hands required, your brain is multi-tasking. If the call invokes heavy emotions, such as a lover's quarrel or stressful problem at work, expect a corresponding loss of attention on the road.

New innovations make it possible to drive safer and still enjoy the convenience of mobile technology. However, you still need to take precautions with talking while driving. When lives are at stake, there is no substitute for your awareness of traffic and road conditions.

 Carmen Lowe

About the Guest Author:

Carmen Lowe lives in California and blogs for carinsurance.org.uk about tech gadgets, including bluetooth accessories, that let you stay safe while driving.