Mobile Apps for Safer, Cheaper Driving

These smartphone apps put resources and reminders at your fingertips.

Like most Americans, you probably spend a great deal of time behind the wheel. These three smartphone apps can help you conquer three pet peeves that many road warriors share.

DriveMeCrazy (iPhone, free). When you see someone driving dangerously, just speak the license plate number into your phone, if allowed by law, to voice-activate the app. Then, when you've pulled over and it's safe to type, fill out the additional details, such as the date, time, location and violation, etc. The information is available to all other DriveMeCrazy users, and it’s anonymously logged with the DMV and local law enforcement, who keep it on record. You can also share the details on Twitter and Facebook if you think shame through social networking might keep the driver in line next time.

RepairPal (iPhone, Android, mobile Web, free). The only thing worse than having car trouble on a road trip is paying too much for repairs. That’s why RepairPal allows you to select your make of car and the type of service you need from drop-down menus, and then returns an idea of the repairs’ expected price range. It can also help you find local repair shops, towing companies and roadside assistance services, using Google Maps integration.

Honk (iPhone, $0.99). If you rack up parking tickets because you overstay your time or can't remember where you parked, this app is a lifesaver. When you've fed the real-life meter, set the cartoon meter on your phone for the amount of time you've paid for, and then choose how much advance warning you want the alarm to give you. When your time is nearly up, the app will honk at you. The app also uses a GPS tracker to record your location when you set the meter, and it lets you take a photo of the spot. You can even make handwritten notes on the photo (“just south of Main St.,” for example) to help you remember exactly where you parked.