Distracted driving is serious and, oftentimes, deadly. In 2014, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported, at least 16 percent of all traffic collisions reported across the country had happened because of distracted driving. During the same year, 10 percent of all fatal crashes were traced back to distraction, and at least 18 percent of all injury crashes were also tied to distraction.
In order to help put an end to the epidemic, which has been growing considerably, turning some of the most vulnerable individuals on the road into victims, the NHTSA has just released a list of new guidelines. And amongst them, there’s one that is particularly important to phone users.
According to the list of recommendations, the NHTSA is asking smartphone manufacturers to develop a new mode, allowing the phone to block the driver from using apps and other features that could lead to distraction. The mode would be called “Driver Mode,” and it would allow for the technology to be in sync with the vehicle’s infotainment system, allowing it to be triggered whenever the vehicle is in motion.
While many believe that this new guideline would have drivers “locked out” of their phones, regulators believe that this step will help to curb the risks associated with distracted driving.
With the advancement of technologies, smartphone makers would be able to make sure that drivers are never distracted again. But it’s unclear whether regulators would push manufactures to add this feature to all smartphones.
Features that would be blocked if the new guidelines are followed include anything that would require the driver’s attention such as social media, text messaging, or video. Anything that isn’t related to driving would be eliminated.
While the guidelines are simply suggestions, many within the federal agency are hoping to see phone manufacturers do everything in their power to help to avoid accidents.
If you’re curious to know more about these guidelines and how they could help drivers to avoid accidents, follow this link to read more.
