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GPS devices are popular because they provide such a useful service. With them you can plan a route, get directions on how to get to a given destination, find services even in unfamiliar surroundings, and more. In fact many of them assist you in placing hands-free calls, viewing photos, calculating currency exchange, and so forth.

However, there's been a little discussed problem with these devices. They can be a significant driving distraction. We try to view maps rather than looking at the road where vehicles and pedestrians are moving about in front of us. We fiddle with touch screens and buttons to navigate to the screen we need. Thus, not only are our eyes and attention off of the road, but our hands may not even be firmly on the steering wheel at times.

However, there are GPS devices that minimize the distracted driving risks. A device with spoken directions is a good first step. Now, the newer GPS devices that don't have spoken directions are a novelty as this feature is increasingly common. This feature of course allows you less time looking at the GPS screen to view maps and more time looking and the road and responding to what you are told.

A newer feature however is voice command. This feature adds even more safety. A voice activated GPS device allows the user to request directions and more via voice. In other words, their hands can stay on the wheel and they can avoid looking way from the road even more often.  Many manufacturers now offer voice command including Garmin and Magellan.

Garmin's 3790T is a good example. It provides both spoken directions and voice commands.  In addition, it allows users to place hands-free calls with compatible phones. Other nice features include lane assist, the ability to view it in landscape or portrait orientation, free lifetime access to FM traffic alerts, and assistance in locating city transit to get around town.

See it function below: