*UPDATED 10/16/23*
Zoom Calls and Road Safety: CARSTAR Robert's Collision's Updated Perspective
At CARSTAR Robert's Collision, your safety on the road is our top priority. In a world where technology has become an integral part of our lives, we understand the challenges that come with it. In a world that's constantly evolving, we've adapted too. We've narrowed our focus to become the go-to experts for collision repair and bodywork, and we're now known as CARSTAR Robert's Collision. Our commitment to your safety remains unwavering.
In a previous blog post, we discussed the "Zoom Zombie" effect, a term coined to describe the challenges people face when transitioning from a video conference call to driving. The data showed that many individuals have trouble concentrating on the road after being engrossed in a virtual meeting. Studies conducted in various metropolitan areas across the country revealed some intriguing findings, and the statistics might surprise you.
The research indicated that Montana boasts the most focused drivers, while South Carolina unfortunately ranked at the bottom in terms of concentration. California, where our shop is located, was not included in the list, and we suspect it's due to the stringent COVID-19 restrictions that kept many Californians at home during that period.
Zoom Calls Still a Part of Our Lives
Fast forward to today, and Zoom calls and virtual meetings continue to be a part of our daily routine. The COVID-19 pandemic may have loosened its grip on our lives, but the impact of remote work and virtual gatherings remains significant. With the advent of hybrid work models and the convenience of video conferencing, more people than ever are relying on platforms like Zoom for work, school, and social interactions.
Zoom and Road Safety
The "Zoom Zombie" effect highlighted in our previous blog is as relevant today as it was when the article was originally published. Many of us still find ourselves in virtual meetings regularly, and the consequences of being a "Zoom Zombie" can increase the risk of accidents on the road.
Our Updated Safety Advice
At CARSTAR Robert's Collision, we've updated our advice for all those who participate in video conferencing calls. Safety on the road is paramount, and here's how you can ensure you and others stay safe:
1. Don't Drive and Zoom: It's essential to emphasize that driving while participating in a Zoom call or any video conference is extremely unsafe. It not only puts your life at risk but also endangers others on the road. Distractions from video calls can be deadly, so please wait until you've safely parked your car to engage in virtual meetings.
2. Prioritize Safe Driving: When you get behind the wheel, prioritize safe driving habits. This means wearing your seatbelt, stowing your cell phone away, and removing all personal distractions that could divert your attention from the road.
3. Collision Repair: In the unfortunate event of a collision, make sure to gather all the necessary information for your auto insurance claim. CARSTAR Robert's Collision is here to assist you with an auto body repair estimate and ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition.
4. Expert Auto Body Services: CARSTAR Robert's Collision is your trusted partner for collision repair, touch-up paint, major paint jobs, wheel alignment, and detailing services. Your safety is our priority, and we're here to ensure your vehicle is in the best possible condition.
Schedule an Appointment
We invite you to schedule an appointment with CARSTAR Robert's Collision for any auto body repair or maintenance needs. Visit our website to book your appointment with our dedicated auto body team. We're here to take great care of you and your vehicle.
As the "Zoom Zombie" effect persists in our daily lives, we're here to remind you to prioritize safety on the road. Avoid distractions, stay focused, and, most importantly, don't drive and Zoom.CARSTAR Robert's Collision is your trusted partner, and we're here to keep you safe and your vehicle in the best condition possible. Your safety on the road is our commitment, and we're just a call away for all your auto body needs.
In this recent article from Aftermarket Matters, studies show that many people who get off of a video conference call and hop in the car afterward have trouble concentrating on the road. This study looked at different metro areas around the country and drivers’ abilities to remain focused while driving. What they discovered may surprise you.
In this image, you’ll see that the most focused drivers are in Montana and the least focused drivers are in South Carolina. We found it interesting that California didn’t make the list, but we are assuming it’s because so many Californians are still stuck at home due to COVID restrictions.
Source: https://www.aftermarketmatters.com/collision-repair/beware-of-the-zoom-zombie-more-than-half-who-drive-after-video-chatting-report-trouble-concentrating/
Here is a quote from the article about the Zoom Zombie effect:
“Moreover, a national consumer survey of 1,819 American drivers shows that 54 percent of Americans who drive after video chatting report trouble concentrating. When work life became synonymous with home life, COVID-19 created new distractions and challenges for American drivers getting behind the wheel of a car.”
The article does bring up some important points as Californians eagerly await the lifting of all COVID restrictions after June 15, 2021. This point is the fact that so many of us are in Zoom calls on a regular basis and the aftereffects may increase the risk of traffic accidents.
If you participate in video conferencing calls for work, for school, or for social purposes, here is the advice we have for you:
Please don’t drive and Zoom at the same time. That’s not safe for anyone and it will wreck your concentration.
When you get behind the steering wheel, buckle up, put your cell phone away, and remove all personal distractions that would take your focus off of the road.
Should you get into a collision with your vehicle, be sure to gather all the necessary information for your auto insurance and come to CARSTAR Robert’s Collision for an auto body repair estimate.
You are invited to CARSTAR Robert’s Collision for auto body repairs, touch-up paint, a major paint job, wheel alignment, or detailing services. Please schedule an appointment athttps://www.roberts-autorepair.com//appointments/so our auto body team can take great care of you and your vehicle.