Charlotte, NC, Aug. 26, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Liberty Buick GMC , located near Charlotte, NC, is promoting safe driving techniques and educating drivers on how to use improved technology to reduce distractions while driving.
Distracted driving is quickly becoming a major factor in accidents. According to the NSC cell phone related activities are to blame for 27% of all crashes. Scott McCorkle, owner of Liberty Buick GMC, wants to help reduce that number. "Buick and GMC have sophisticated technology to help drivers stay focused on the road while driving," says McCorkle, "We hope to educate drivers on how to use this technology and stay safe."
New Buicks and GMC vehicles are equipped with infotainment systems that connect drivers with their smartphones through Bluetooth technology. This technology can help drivers access navigation apps, make and receive phone calls, and send and receive text messages. "The idea is that you can stay connected without taking your eyes off the road," says McCorkle.
As gas prices have gone down and the economy has improved, more people are on the roads according to the National Safety Council (NSC). In the first half of 2015 fatal crashes are up about 14 percent from last year due to a variety of factors. The president of the NSC, Deborah Herman, stated, "We see spikes in distracted driving, in speeding, and in impaired driving."
Texting while driving is a bad idea, but can be a hard habit to break, especially amongst teen drivers. Technology in the new Buick and GMC vehicles can read text messages and allows drivers to respond with pre-programmed texts using just your voice. "Some of our customers might need help understanding how to use this technology and that's what we are here for," says McCorkle, "Our sales team will show you how to use the infotainment system as well as help connect your smartphone."
In order to reduce distracted driving accidents in the future, GM plans to equip vehicles with sensors to monitor where drivers' heads and eyes are pointed. According to CBS news, GM hopes to put these driver monitoring sensors, designed by Seeing Machines, in their vehicles over the next 3-5 years. The monitors will warn drivers of lapses in attention which in turn will reduce potentially fatal accidents.
As teenagers head back to school, Liberty Buick GMC wants to make sure drivers know and understand the dangers of distracted driving. "We want everyone to focus on the road while driving and when an important call or text can't wait, we want them to know how to use the technology in their new car to keep their eyes on the road," says McCorkle.
For drivers wanting to know more about this technology or take one of these vehicles for a test drive, they can visit Liberty Buick GMC at 9028 East Independence Blvd or call 704-708-8000.