Back in the day, people used large maps to determine where they are and what roads they needed to take to get where they needed to be. It was a time when it was normal to stop at a gas station and ask for directions or purchase a map of the city. At this time, there was a danger in driving and looking at a map. Normally, a driver would deem the person in the passenger seat the navigator, and that partner would determine the route that should be taken and where to turn. Now, with the advent of the GPS system, not many people use maps. This has decreased the danger of drivers who try to navigate with a large map while driving, but it has created problems in other areas.
For one, GPS systems are incredibly engaging. They talk to the driver, warn him when turn are approaching, and predict the time of arrival. Some GPS systems are outfitted with advertisements which pop up as the driver is passing a fast food restaurant or a coffee shop. They can also point out where the nearest gas station is, or where to stop if you are craving a taco or an ice cold Coke. All these distractions can be a lot of fun, but they can also be a danger. Sometimes a driver will make the mistake of watching his or her GPS more than the road!
If you have a GPS, it is best to situate it so that it is mounted on the front windshield. That way you won't need to look down every time you want to check you position on the device. By mounting your GPS you can simply flick your eyes from the road to the screen. Still, make sure that you don't become too absorbed. Never operate the GPS while you are driving. If you want to make a stop at the nearest Starbucks, pull over to the side of the road and program the destination before proceeding. Some GPS devices even have a lock which prohibits drivers from programming the destination while the vehicle is in motion.If your GPS is on your phone, you can purchase mounting devices so that the phone can be placed on the dashboard. Often these handy little mounts even come with speaker phone capabilities, so that you can talk on the phone, navigate, and driver simultaneously.
Another danger with GPS systems is their route choices. Sometimes a GPS may choose the quickest way to get to your destination, but it may not be the safest. The GPS does not have the discernment to choose a path that avoids hostile parts of town or two-lane, windy roads. You may want to ask locals of the area you are travelling to for places to avoid, so that you can reroute your device to evade these areas. For example, in the rain some areas tend to flood. You would not want to get caught in a puddle-filled road in a torrential rain storm. Also, on dark nights you probably don't want to take two-lane highways, where a drunk driver or a distracted motorist could drift into your lane and cause a head on collision.
As well, GPS systems can be inaccurate. The constant construction all across America makes it difficult for GPS's to keep up. They may choose a route that is blocked, or lead you to a destination that has moved or closed. GPS companies are working hard to make real-time GPS's that can determine the traffic, road blocks, and closed exits and steer you clear of them. Unfortunately, this technology is normally quite expensive, and may cost a lot more than you would desire to spend. In the meantime, it is best to ask friends and family for directions when possible. Whenever you are driving somewhere new, try to carpool and have your car buddy act as the navigator. Learn to avoid areas where driving is dangerous or the city is not safe. By driving careful and knowing where you are going, you will reduce your risk of an accident and have a better chance of getting to your destination safely.