March 30, 2010
By: Jana Bell
Banning texting while driving seems to be the hot topic among lawmakers statewide and now software and gadget companies are working to create phone apps that will curb consumers' ability to text while driving.
At least a dozen startups have produced phone applications designed to curb the temptation to use the phone while driving, the San Francisco Chronicle reports. The challenges appear to be that these apps will only work on certain phones and the ability to tell if a consumer is driving or not is limited.
Some question the actual hazards of texting while driving. While at least 20 states have laws outlawing it, there haven't been any studies proving its effectiveness.
"Technology without a clear vision for how it's going to actually help drivers could end up doing more harm than good," said John Lee, professor of industrial and systems engineering at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.
In addition, the companies creating the apps seem to be doing so without the help of wireless carriers, cell phone makers, auto manufacturers and the federal government, the SFC reports.
Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to be involved in a car crash according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
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