Whether it’s a weekend road trip, a journey across the country or just an errand to the store, having some of these latest apps can make you an efficient and safer driver. However, the key is to never drive distracted.

Please make sure you only use these apps while parked or before even getting in the car.

Remember, distracted drivers needlessly endanger their own lives as well as everyone around them. In fact, distracted driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Never use these apps, or your phone, while driving.

UDOT Traffic App

The Utah Department of Transportation gathers data about Utah roads to help keep travelers safe. To encourage safer travel, the app provides access to road conditions and traffic information including: a zoomable map, crashes, road construction, current road weather conditions, road weather forecasts, traffic camera images, electronic roadway sign messages and more. Once you have this app, you’ll be checking it before every trip to adjust travel, avoid hazards and improve safety.

Google Maps

If you aren’t a Google Maps convert, you soon will be. This app consistently ranks number one among navigation apps. Not just for drivers, the app provides detailed maps for driving, biking and walking directions, as well as incorporated pit stops along the way. With real-time ETAs and traffic conditions, the app will automatically re-route for the fastest arrival by avoiding traffic, incidents and road closures. The app also helps users find top-rated restaurants and local business along with customer reviews, contact information and photos.

GasBuddy

Another crowd-sourcing app that has consumers hooked, GasBuddy helps users locate the cheapest gas in their area and encourages them to upload gas prices as they fill up. The user-friendly app allows you to refine your search by city, zip code or a map, and it also includes a trip cost calculator.

Repair Pal

Regularly check your vehicle to make sure it’s running smooth, especially before the end of summer road trips because you never want to risk riding on bald tires, low fluids or with old filters and wipers. Even if you change your own oil, you may need help from time to time ensuring that you’re receiving a fair price for repairs. Repair Pal app to the rescue!

Based on your specific vehicle and location, the app can help you understand the right price to pay for your repair and help you to track your repairs for the future. The list of mechanics and reviews will also help you choose the best location for your repair. It also includes a bonus feature that gives you the option to call for roadside assistance.

Honk

Honk is the app that will save you time and money. No more wandering around searching for your parked car and no more parking tickets! After you park, enter your location information with a photo and handwritten memo, and on your return, Honk will guide you step-by-step back to your car. When you park, swipe your finger across the meter graphic to indicate how long you plan to park. On your home screen, the app icon will display the remaining minutes. When the time is up, it will honk to alert you.

With new apps downloaded, you’re ready to cruise! As you’re driving the highways and byways, remember the primary goal of every trip is to arrive safely. If you are a driver, make sure you always drive buckled, alert and sober. And please do not use these apps while you are driving. Give the task of driving your undivided attention.

If you are a passenger, help your driver stay focused and make sure everyone is properly buckled before the car moves. You can make the difference between life or death by simply speaking up for traffic safety and being the example. Zero Fatalities should be your goal. To learn more, visit www.zerofatalities.com.

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