NHTSA Encourages Phone Makers To Help Combat Distracted Driving
When I was younger I did a lot of stupid things. I’ve driven while eating soup, cereal, and even hot pockets. It’s absolutely ridiculous and unacceptable. I don’t drive a lot anymore, but I when I do I am 100% committed to the task at hand, driving!
3,179 people were killed, and 431,000 were injured in vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2014. Recently the NHTSA announced their 2nd phase of voluntary guidelines to address distracted driving.
The first phase encouraged automakers to design less distracting devices or systems at the time of manufacture. This second phase encourages phone makers to limit what you can do on your phone while driving. This would be accomplished by simplifying phone pairing, and disabling app features while driving.
"NHTSA has long encouraged drivers to put down their phones and other devices, and just drive," said NHTSA Administrator Dr. Mark Rosekind in a press release. "With driver distraction one of the factors behind the rise of traffic fatalities, we are committed to working with the industry to ensure that mobile devices are designed to keep drivers’ eyes where they belong — on the road."
One issue with this recommendation is that the NHTSA has no authority over phone makers. While it seems the companies are listening to the advice, it is 100% voluntary.
The other issue is that there would be no way to distinguish between a driver and a passenger. A passenger often navigates or controls phone features for the driver.
While I have confidence that these issues will be straightened out, stopping distracted driving starts with you. Here are some tips from the NHTSA to minimize distracted driving.
- Be a safe, distraction-free driver, put your cell phone down and focus on the road
- When using electronic devices for directions, set the destination prior to driving
- Speak up when you're a passenger and your driver uses an electronic device while driving. Offer to call or text for the driver, so his or her full attention stays on the driving task; and
- Always wear your seat belt. Seat belts are the best defense against other unsafe drivers
We can end distracted driving together.
