AT&T Wireless and AAA Chicago Motor Club Remind Drivers to Arrive Safely And Make Safety Your Most Important Call

CHICAGO, Feb. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With today's official start of the Chicago Auto show, AT&T Wireless and the AAA Chicago Motor Club have partnered together to remind motorists about the responsible use of wireless phones while driving.

``Distracted driving has always been a major concern, whether it's reading a newspaper, drinking coffee, or talking on the phone while behind the wheel,'' says Norma Cooper, AAA-Chicago Motor Club spokesperson. ``We must remember to use common sense when behind the wheel of a two-thousand pound automobile.''

As the official telecommunications provider to the Chicago Auto Show, AT&T Wireless is donating over 125,000 brochures and Chicagoland maps which include important safety tips for drivers.

``We are committed to promoting our Arrive Safely safety program to our more than 18 million customers across the country and are proud to partner with the AAA Chicago Motor Club,'' said Jim Johnson, Vice President and General Manager for AT&T Wireless.

The safe operation of your car or truck is your primary responsibility. Do not let anything -- a wireless phone call, the radio/CD/tape player, the kids, applying makeup, a newspaper, food and beverages -- distract you from the safe operation of your vehicle.

Wireless phones have had a positive impact on public safety. Motorists can now call for help instantly and from almost anywhere. However, drivers must not let this potentially lifesaving tool distract them from driving safely.

AT&T Wireless offers the following tips for drivers: Always buckle up. Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Don't let a phone call distract you from driving safely. Allow voice mail to handle your calls and return them at your convenience.

Pull off the road to a safe area or ask a passenger to make or take the call. Use a hands-free system and voice-activated dialing while driving. Dial numbers in short sequences while you are not moving. Do not engage in stressful or emotional conversations while driving. Never take notes or look up numbers while driving. Position the phone within easy reach. AT&T Wireless Services has been informing consumers about the safe use and operation of wireless phones for years. From the point when a new AT&T Wireless Services customer receives their ``wireless welcome kit'' to consumer advertising and sales collateral, safety tips are an integral part of our communication with the consumer. More information is available at www.attws.com/arrivesafely .

The Chicago Auto Show is the nation's largest and longest running auto show. The exhibit opens today at Chicago's McCormick Place South and runs through February 17.