A telecommunications company is encouraging drivers to keep their eyes on the road.
AT&T brought its "It Can Wait" distracted driving simulator to Staten Island Thursday.
Customers were invited to wear a virtual reality headset.
The video gives users a realistic glimpse into the potential consequences of using a smartphone behind the wheel.
Company leaders say the initiative has been an eye-opening experience for many drivers.
"People realize after doing this and putting themselves in that situation how dangerous it can be for themselves and for other people, so it gives them a different perspective on something that they just reflexively are doing," said Marissa Shorenstein, president of AT&T New York.
Another demonstration is scheduled for Friday at the New Dorp AT&T store on Hylan Boulevard from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.