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Texting while driving is one of the biggest causes of accidents among drivers. Not only is the physical act of texting distracting, but reading texts while driving is also a major cause for concern. With the advancements of technologies available with smartphones today, texting while driving no longer has to be a distraction thanks to the following apps.
1. Auto SMS
AutoSMS is an app designed for Android devices that acts as an auto responder. Turn it on while driving, and it will automatically send an auto response message to incoming text messages and calls. Users also have the option of having texts read out loud, and you can also schedule texts to go out at specific times.
You can customize your autoresponder so that those who call you know what you’re doing. For example, you can customize it to simply say “driving”, or you can be more descriptive with “Driving. I’ll call you later.” The app is set up to send only one auto responder to the same person, so if someone truly persistent keeps calling or texting you after receiving the initial autoresponder, they won’t be bombarded with the same message over and over.
2. Drivesafe.ly
Drivesafe.ly helps prevent you from distracted driving by reading emails, G Voice text messages, Twitter updates and Facebook messages out loud. You can also respond to these messages with your voice instead of taking your fingers and hands off the wheel and using them to respond to these messages.
Drivesafe.ly will read the name of the person who sent you a message, and you can also set up your settings so that you can adjust the speed of incoming messages. When the app recognizes a Bluetooth headset or a car docking station, it will automatically turn on so that you don’t have to fuss with it while you’re driving.
3. Text’nDrive
Text‘nDrive will read your emails out loud while you’re driving, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel. You can also speak your responses so that you don’t have to type. This app works with speakerphones, Bluetooth and car docking stations and works on Gmail, Hotmail, AOL, Yahoo and Me email accounts. It currently does not work with text messages.
4. iZUP
iZUP uses GPS technology to determine when you are on the road. The app will then make your phone incapable of accepting text messages and phone calls, as well as accessing email and social media accounts, but will save all missed calls, voicemails and unread texts for you to review once it determines you are no longer behind the wheel.
The app also has an autoresponder feature that lets callers and texters know that the person they are trying to reach is currently driving and that they will contact them when it is safe to do so.
Being unable to access information or read/accept texts and phone calls forces you to pay attention to the road. This eliminates the distraction you receive while driving, which not only keeps you safe, but it also keeps other drivers safe too. If you find yourself constantly being distracted by texts, email and phone calls while you’re driving, use one of these apps to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
Author BIO
Mark Peters is a writer. He likes to write articles about cars, travel, and driving statistics. Mark also enjoys cruising around in his Nissan Truck.
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