New Device Prevents Driving While Using Cell Phone

A new automobile ignition key with a cost under $50.00 may prevent teenagers and others from talking on cell phones or sending text messages while driving. Researchers at the University of Utah, have developed a device called “Key2SafeDriving” designed to reducecar wrecks caused by distracted drivers. Xuesong Zhou, an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering who co-invented the system with Wally Curry, a former University of Utah graduate now practicing medicine in Hays, Kan. “We want to provide a simple, cost-effective solution to improve driving safety.”

Motor vehicle accidents are the fifth leading cause of all deaths in the country. Among teens, however, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death. Studies by other researchers at the university have shown that driving while talking on cell phones is as dangerous as driving drunk. Several states have banned phoning and texting while driving, particularly for novice drivers. While statistics are difficult to come by, one estimate made prior to the rise in popularity of texting held that cell phone distraction causes 2,600 deaths and 330,000 injuries in the United States every year.

Zhou says that “at any given time, about 6 percent of travelers on the road are talking on a cell phone while driving. Also at any given time, 10 percent of teenagers who are driving are talking or texting.” The device might not just make driving safer, it may also help to reduce insurance rates.

When the device is activated drivers cannot use their cell phones to talk or send text messages, except for calling 911 or other numbers pre-approved numbers. In addition, the device will send an automated message to incoming calls and texts that say, “I am driving now. I will call you later when I arrive at the destination safely.”

Montes Law Group, P.C., is the law firm to hire if you have been injured by a driver who was distracted because he or she was talking on a cell phone or text messaging or sending and reading email on a cell phone. The practice of Driving While Texting (DWT) is dangerous and puts everyone at risk for causing a wreck that results in serious personal injury or even death. Contact Rachel Montes or Thomas Herald to discuss your case. We handle cases on contingency fee basis so you owe no attorney’s fees or expenses unless we obtain a recovery for you. Our main office is located in the Las Colinas area of Irving, Texas. Visit our website at www.MontesLawGroup.com to learn more about our law firm.