Minnesota residents may be disconcerted by the number of smartphone-using drivers. As distracted driving and, with it, the number of accidents increase, others are searching for ways to keep themselves from growing negligent behind the wheel. To this end, AT&T, Sprint and Verizon have all made free apps available that can silence incoming communications and disable the texting function while the user’s car is in motion.
This may not be enough, though, because such apps do not prevent drivers from accessing social media networks or video games, such as Pokémon Go. However, two new devices may provide an answer. The need is great, but it all depends on whether the new technology will receive the wide marketing it deserves.
The first is called Groove and links the driver’s phone to its service provider after being plugged into the car. This could stop distracted driving by allowing the service provider to block all incoming and outgoing communication once the car is in motion. It lets the messages appear once the car is off.
While Groove is in its pilot phase, Drive ID, the second device, is currently available for $129. This solar-powered device attaches to the windshield and blocks communications to the driver’s phone without affecting passengers’ phones. It does this by creating separate zones for the two groups.
A certain survey revealed that 55 percent of drivers would keep such technologies on if they came preset in their vehicles. This means many are still willing to forgo safety and engage in negligent behavior. When such behavior contributes to a car accident, those who are not to blame can receive compensation. Filing a third-party insurance claim can be hard without legal assistance, though. A lawyer could gather the necessary proof and handle all negotiations on the client’s behalf.
