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. The radio was shown to be a distraction even then. As technology advanced in vehicles, drivers had the option of having 8 tracks, cassettes, and then CD players installed in their cars. With today’s technology, tapes and CDs are a fixture in 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 one small “fine as a razor” Electronic device. Now people can listen to their music on the go … anytime, anywhere, which has posed some problems.
In recent years, manufacturers have been installing driveways that allow people to plug in their MP3 or iPod players. If you can’t have a new car with an MP3 player connection, it can be difficult to listen to your music. Lacking the proper connection, some drivers have resorted to listening 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 cannot hear what is going on around you. With headphones on, it becomes very difficult to hear emergency vehicles and other cars that might honk to alert you to a pedestrian, another vehicle, or potential hazards. Additionally, the use of headphones prevents you from hearing your own vehicle, which may be making noises that indicate a mechanical problem.
One final problem with using your MP3 player in your car is possible distraction, even without headphones on. Many iPods and MP3 players have enough storage space for your entire music collection. With a large number of songs to select from, the driver can be distracted by scrolling through the songs and choosing the “perfect” driving playlist.
Not only is it illegal to use them while driving a vehicle, but it is also illegal to use them while riding a bike. Remember that most states apply their driving laws to bicyclists, including proper use of hand signals, lane obedience, etc. Many times a vehicle cannot see bicycle traffic, so it is even more important for bicyclists to hear cars and trucks.
If you have an iPod or MP3 player and you find it impossible to drive without your music, there are a few things you can do to make your unit a little safer:
1. If your vehicle doesn’t have it plugged in, consider purchasing an FM transmitter or cassette tape adapter. Both devices will allow you to play your music player through your stereo.
2. To avoid being distracted while driving Create some playlists of your favorite songs, this way you don’t have to scroll through your music collection trying to select the songs you like.
3. If you find that it has been dropped or need to adjust your music player, find a safe place to go inside. If you must go off the road, do it all and give yourself an extra three feet of space away from the road. This will give you additional protection against a distracted driver who may drift into your lane and give you a better view when you are 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.