​​How Can We Help Reduce Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving?​ 

One of the major causes of road accidents in the U.S.A. is distracted driving. In 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recorded more than 3,200 fatalities, and over an estimated 315,000 injuries were caused by motorists being distracted.  

The main cause of these distracted driving incidents is phone use. These include times when a person physically picks up a phone to make calls or text someone. In fact, a 2016 National Institutes of Health study found that crash risk is two to six times higher when drivers are using their phones.  

Distractive driving can be caused by other behaviors, such as searching for something they have dropped inside the vehicle. Such behaviors can cause a driver to look away from the road. Any such behavior increases the risk of getting into an accident. 

General Motors is actively working to combat driver distraction by emphasizing vehicle technology that uses natural voice recognition and hands-free features standard on every Chevrolet model. These technologies include hands-free phone use via Bluetooth. It is simply a matter of using the Google Assistant or the hands-free button to ask your Chevrolet to dial a number and call someone.  

Navigation is another area where drivers experience distraction in trying to find a location on their phones. Through Google Assistant or smartphone integration, you can get directions and have them mapped. Directions are also “read back” to you. You can see them in your head-up display on the windshield. These will help you keep your eyes on the road while guiding you to where you need to go.  

With the introduction of Super Cruise, a new set of driver assistance features was designed to keep your eyes on the road, even when your hands are off the steering wheel. With Driver Attention Assist 2.0, a set of small cameras and sensors detects signs of distraction or drowsiness. If either is detected, the vehicle will display alerts on the gauge cluster, sound chimes, or send vibrations to the driver’s seat to reengage you and return your attention to the road. It can also bring your vehicle to a stop while alerting OnStar in an emergency. 

While technology is an important part of keeping you and your Chevrolet safe, there are steps you can take to stay distraction-free on the road.  

• Since your phone is connected to your vehicle, go ahead and stow it somewhere. The wireless charging pad is one option.  

• Know where the key functions of your vehicle are located so you don’t have to search for them. Those include the buttons on your steering wheel.  

• If you have a water bottle or coffee cup, keep it within easy reach. The cupholders in your Chevrolet are positioned within easy reach, with no hassle.  

• Take care of what you need to do before you put your Chevrolet in gear. Some functions are available on your center display touchscreen through Google Assistant or voice commands, if you really need them. But it is probably best to get that text sent or find your favorite download from your phone before you go.  

• Most importantly, know that when the world around you is full of motorists trying to distract you and steal your peace behind the wheel, take a few deep breaths and focus on ensuring you and your fellow passengers reach your destination safely and securely.  

When you are looking for your next vehicle – or need help with your current one – Twin Falls Chevrolet is here to help you ensure you can operate your vehicle properly. If you have any questions about your Chevrolet, please don’t hesitate to contact us!