App overview
Pros
• Apps are easy and attractive to promote and can be installed there and then , potentially protecting the individual from the moment they leave the encounter with you .
• Apps can turn on automatically - ideal for those who otherwise forget to put their phone out of reach or turn it to silent .
• Many Apps are free and easy to install .
• There are a range of Apps that have differing functions , making them suitable for different groups of people .
• Some apps provide an auto-response to those trying to make contact with the driver , sending a road safety message out to others in the process and contributing to a positive social norm .
Cons
• Apps can be easily uninstalled or disabled , and may be removed if they are seen as inconvenient .
• Some Apps only reduce handheld distraction , ignoring the risk of hands-free mobile phone use .
• Not every App can be used on every device ( some are restricted only to iOS , for example ).
• Some ‘ safe driving ’ Apps simply make it ‘ easier ’ to use a phone while driving rather than preventing distraction .
• Not everyone has a Smartphone , and hence Apps cannot be used by all .
• Repeated calls from the same number will override some Apps , this being deemed a likely emergency
• Many Apps can be personalised , effectively allowing the driver to choose which forms of notification they still want to be distracted by .
It is important to note that apps vary in their usefulness in improving road safety . Those that are focused upon reducing offending behaviour will not remove the risk of hands-free mobile phone use , and will therefore not remove all of the risk associated with the action . Be sure that you aren ’ t recommending an app that suggests individuals simply switch to another form of risk .
Which App should we promote ? Make sure that any App that you promote :
• Can be set to activate automatically and does not require manual triggering
• Doesn ’ t encourage hands-free use , or too much focus on ‘ avoiding getting caught ’
• Prevents all kinds of notifications from getting through to the driver , not just calls , or texts ,
• Is free and easy to install
• Sends out a message to those trying to make contact that is pro-safe driving
• Is genuine and safe and does what it claims it does !
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