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How to Use ‘Offline Mode’ While Driving: An Inclusive Guide to DND

Learn how to use your phone's Do Not Disturb mode to minimize all distractions while driving.

A yellow license plate that reads: Offline Mode - Do Not Disturb - Talk Later

Most teenagers eagerly look forward to being able to drive because it offers a huge sense of freedom and independence. But with that freedom comes responsibility; especially when it comes to staying safe and focused on the road.

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents. There are so many different types of distracted driving, but a significant number of them come from cell phones. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting while driving makes you 23 times more likely to crash, and taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds is equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

When we think about distracted driving, texting often comes to mind first. However, any activity on our phones can be distracting. Whether it’s scrolling through social media, taking selfies, checking notifications, or recording videos, these distractions can shift your focus away from the road. This not only puts you at risk but also endangers your passengers and everyone around you.

That’s why turning on your phone’s Do Not Disturb (DND) mode or using a third-party app specifically designed for road safety is one of the best things you can do to keep yourself and others safe.

How to Use Do Not Disturb Mode on Your Phone

Third-Party Apps for Do Not Disturb While Driving

If your phone’s built-in features aren’t cutting it or you’re looking for something extra, you can also download an app that can help limit distractions while driving, like these:

Using your phone’s Do Not Disturb feature or a third-party app is one of the first steps towards becoming a safer driver and making the roads safer for yourself and those around you. Not checking social media, taking photos or videos, texting, or other forms of distracted driving can be the difference between arriving safely or causing an accident, so remember to…

  1. Make it a habit to turn on Do Not Disturb before every drive, even short trips.
  2. Inform your friends and family about your commitment to road safety, so they won’t expect an instant response
  3. Keep your phone out of sight by placing it in a glove box or bag to avoid the temptation to check it
  4. Pre-set everything you need before driving, such as your playlist or GPS, so you won’t need to touch your phone while on the road
TAKE THE #OFFLINEMODE PLEDGE

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