CAN CELL CARRIERS STOP DISTRACTED DRIVERS?
The New York Times published a Tech article this week stating that cellular telephone service providers are in the midst of developing technology that would temporarily interrupt service when the cell phone is in a moving car. The glitch: The technology cannot determine whether the phone belongs to a driver or passenger.
Distracting behavior, such as answering cell phone calls, texting, eating and even tending to children, can increase the risk of a car crash. We know from a recent AAA study that drivers who look away from the road for just two seconds double their risk of being in a crash. The research cited by the New York Times states that people who drive while talking on a cell phone risk getting into a car crash at a rate that is four times greater than motorists who do not talk on phones while driving. The studies also state that psychological and physiological reasons play a part in compulsive cell phone use while driving. The article stated: "People may fear missing an important call from a friend or boss, or get excited by the prospect of receiving interesting news."
While there are smartphone applications available that claim to shut down phones when a car is moving quickly, these applications have not been well-received thus far. It is encouraging that the cellular providers have taken initiative to further explore and study the technology in this area. Any and every step taken to prevent distracted driving is welcome.
If you or someone you know has been injured by a distracted driver, contact the lawyers at the Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll for a consultation.
