Most people use some form of technology on a daily basis. For many people, the preferred technological gadget is their smartphone. From playing games to checking the weather, our smartphones have taken over our daily lives. It only makes sense to put these devices to a beneficial use whenever possible. Here are ten apps that can help turn you into a better driver:

1. AT&T DriveMode

Designed for Android and Blackberry devices, this app automatically replies to any text messages sent to you when you’re driving. Think of it in the same way you do your email’s a

utoresponder. The app also blocks all outgoing calls, silences incoming alerts and lets you phone out in an emergency should it be necessary.

2. Sprint Drive First

When your car is traveling at a speed that is greater than 10mph, the application locks your phone. When the app is enabled, all of your calls will be automatically sent to voicemail and alert tones will be silenced. Once the app has decided that your car has been stopped for an appropriate amount of time, it automatically restores all the phone’s functions.

3. DriveSafe.ly

Designed for all mobile platforms, this app is a perfect one to use in any localities that allow hands-free operation of cell phones while driving. Instead of blocking text messages and emails, the application will read any incoming messages aloud, letting you keep your eyes on the road.

4. Safe Driver

Available for the iPhone, the app is designed more for parents than for drivers. Parents can set limits on speed and be alerted by text message when their teen driver has violated the limit. Parents will also be able to see how many times their child was guilty of excessive breaking, excessive turning and excessive acceleration.

5. Text’nDrive

Available on both iOS and Google Play, the application lets you send text messages while you’re driving by using your voice instead of your fingertips. If you have a long commute, this app can be a lifesaver; literally. You can also set the app to read any incoming messages aloud which is incredibly handy if you’re expecting an important email.

6. Textecution

You can use textecution yourself or install it on your teen’s phone if you need a little help in being prevented from texting and driving. By using the accelerometer that is built into your smartphone, the app disables your ability to send text messages and emails when you are driving faster than 10mph.

7. DriveScribe

Like other apps, DriveScribe prevents the sending and receiving of SMS messages while driving faster than 10mph. The app also monitors speed and other driving habits, giving you a report of how well or poorly you drive. The app is great for parents who want to monitor their teens or for people who just want to improve their safety while behind the wheel.

8. iOnRoad

Designed to work with your Android phone’s camera and accelerometer, this app, when mounted on your dash, can alert you to objects in front of you. More than just alert you, the app will calculate your speed in real time and warn you of a pending collision with both audio tones and a visual alert.

9. ZoomSafer

One of the few safe driving apps available for Blackberry and Windows mobile phones, this app limits access to SMS messaging, web browsing and calling while you or your teen are driving. A set contact list allows you to get in touch with someone should you have an emergency while in your vehicle, making this app both safe and useful.

10. Dangers of Distracted Driving

This app doesn’t necessarily help you drive better, but it can help you become a better driver. With several pre-loaded scenarios, you and your teen can witness the very real dangers of distracted driving. Available on iOS, this application presents very real information that should be enough to frighten anyone anyway from using their cell phone while driving.

While these apps can help you become a better driver, it’s important that you use them safely. Be sure to use a hands-free or dash-mounted system with your mobile device so that you can keep your hands on the wheel. By driving safely, you not only put yourself at less risk of collision, but you can save significantly on your car insurance rates. For more information on safe driving and car insurance, visit http://www.carinsurance.org.uk/

Editor’s Note

Thanks to Amy Nielson for writing this quest post. She is an avid blogger who writes often for tech sites. You can follow her on Twitter @NielsonAmy.