Since the invention of automobiles, drivers have had some kind of device to play music, even if it was portable. Many years ago, when you were driving your car, you only had the radio to listen to. Even then the radio proved to be a distraction. As technology advanced in vehicles, drivers had the option of having 8-track, cassette, and later CD players installed in their cars. With today’s technology, tapes and CDs are an item for the history books. Now the main multimedia devices are MP3 players and iPods. These little music players have the ability to store someone’s entire music collection in a small “thin as a razor” Electronic device. Now people can listen to their music on the go…anytime, anywhere, which has raised some issues.
In recent years, manufacturers have been installing plug-ins in vehicles that allow people to plug in their MP3 players or iPods. If you can’t get your hands on a new car with an MP3 player connection, it can be difficult to listen to your music. Lacking the proper connection, some drivers have chosen to listen to their players through their headphones while driving their vehicles.
When driving any vehicle, the use of headphones presents many risks and is illegal in most states.
The most obvious reason this is dangerous is that you can’t hear what’s going on around you. With headphones on, it becomes very difficult to hear emergency vehicles and other cars that might honk their horns to alert you to a pedestrian, another vehicle, or potential hazards. Also, using headphones prevents you from hearing your own vehicle, which may be making noises that indicate a mechanical problem.
A final problem with using your MP3 player in your car is the potential distraction, even without headphones on. Many iPods and MP3 players have enough storage space for your entire music collection. With a plethora of songs to choose from, drivers can distract themselves by scrolling through the songs and choosing the “perfect” driving playlist.
Not only is it illegal to wear them while driving a vehicle, but it’s also illegal to wear them while riding a bike. Remember that most states apply their traffic laws to bicyclists, including proper use of hand signals, lane keeping, etc. Many times a vehicle cannot see bicycle traffic, making it even more important for cyclists to listen for cars and trucks.
If you have an iPod or MP3 player and you can’t drive without your music, there are a few things you can do to make your drive a little safer:
1. If your vehicle doesn’t have it, consider purchasing an FM transmitter or cassette tape adapter. Both of these devices will allow you to play your music player through your stereo.
2. for avoid being distracted while driving make some playlists of your favorite songs, this way you won’t scroll through your music collection trying to choose the songs you like.
3. If you find that you have dropped or need to adjust your music player, find a safe place and move closer. If you must pull off the road, pull all the way out and give yourself three feet of extra space away from the road. This will provide additional protection against a distracted driver who may change lanes and give you a better view when you’re ready to get back on the road.
By following these tips you can reduce your distractions and enjoy driving while listening to your favorite music.