Is It Safe to Use GPS While Driving?

Cell phones and GPS devices have become common tools for modern drivers. Most people turn on their iPhone or Android to get from Point A to Point B without a second thought. Most do not consider whether they are using GPS safely and legally and do not consider the possibility that they are engaging in distracted driving when using navigation systems. It is important to recognize the proper use of GPS to encourage safer practices and prevent car accidents.

Is Using My GPS Considered Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is commonly thought of as actions like sending a text message while driving or talking on the phone. However, distracted driving is considered to be any activity other than driving that happens while at the wheel of a car. They may look down at their phone to check their route, become visually impaired from using it, and even be typing in a route while driving. These driving behaviors would all be those of a distracted driver.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Simply put, a distracted driver is not a responsible driver. Nor is it a safe driver or one who should be behind the wheel. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were over 3,000 fatal accidents that involved a case of distracted driving in 2022 alone. This accounted for 8% of all traffic fatalities in that year. In over 10% of those instances, a cell phone was in use. These are not every distracted driving case, and surely not every accident involving a cell phone requires GPS apps. But it is certain that year after year, Americans lose their lives to these kinds of reckless driving, many of whom were not the ones acting inappropriately. Distracted driving is a great danger to others just as much as it is to yourself and must be avoided.

Distracted Driving Laws and Penalties

The National Conference of State Legislatures outlines what legal use of a cell phone is from state to state. All but two states (Montana and Nebraska), have an outright ban on all texting while driving. Many of these states include a ban on cell phone use altogether.

Pennsylvania recently banned using interactive mobile devices while driving to combat distracted driving. The only exceptions are when used specifically for navigation purposes or in the event of an emergency. If you receive a phone call, the phone must be out of your hand. Violation of this law would constitute a summary offense and a $50 fine.

Is it illegal to use Google Maps while driving?

It is legal to use Google Maps and other navigation systems while driving responsibly. This would involve hands-free usage in which the driver’s attention is on the road ahead. However, it is NOT legal for a driver to actively type and swipe through apps on their cell phone while driving.

Safety Tips for Drivers Using GPS Systems

It is possible to drive safely using navigation devices. Here are a few basic safety tips that can help you avoid the dangers of GPS Systems.

Program Before You Go

Taking care of any business on your phone before you begin driving is wise. This includes taking care of any necessary calls or texts before your car is moving. It also includes choosing your route and programming your navigation app before beginning your trip. While your device will guide you, it is also wise to review some directions yourself and commit them to memory. This will decrease your dependence on the GPS and allow you to dedicate your full attention to the road.

Go Hands-Free

States vary on their exact laws surrounding device use. However, it is nearly universal that holding and using a device while driving is illegal. Even holding a smartphone with a blank screen makes it seem like you’re using it, even if you aren’t.
To avoid having your hands full with your device, you should change your GPS settings so that you receive audio directions. You may use a phone mount on your dashboard to properly position your smartphone so that you can receive directions, so long as it does not block your windshield and view of the road.

Passenger as Co-Pilot

If needed passengers can provide assistance for:

• Directions or turns you don’t pick up from voice commands, a passenger can see and give accurate directions in real time to the correct location.
• Changes in your trip or new directions need to be put in, it is common sense to have someone other than the driver operating a device while in a moving vehicle.
• As a passenger yourself, you should be aware and able to point out when your driver is distracted.

Pull Over if Needed

If there is no way around your need to access a GPS when driving and you have no passengers, it is important to pull over to a safe place. This will keep you and your fellow drivers safe and greatly lower the risk of a crash.

If You’ve Been Injured by a Distracted Driver, Call Munley Law

While GPS navigation systems have revolutionized our travel, their misuse can lead to dangerous distracted driving scenarios. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a driver distracted by GPS or any other form of negligence, Munley Law is here to help. Our experienced automobile accident attorneys have litigated hundreds of distracted driving cases, including those involving GPS use. We have a proven track record of successfully representing victims of such accidents, fighting for their rights, and securing the compensation they deserve. Don’t let a distracted driver’s negligence go unchallenged.

Contact the Munley Law today for a free consultation and let our skilled legal team protect your rights to compensation, just as we’ve done for countless others.