Text-Blocking Technology to Help Reduce Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving from text messaging and internet use has become a leading cause of accidents on the highways.  In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 20% of traffic injury crashes in 2009 involved distracted driving.  Over 5,000 Americans lost their lives and 448,000 were injured by distracted driving and nearly 18% of the fatalities were linked back to cell phone use.  The need for awareness about this issue is evident.  Studies have actually shown that cell phone use while driving reduces driver reactions similar to that of having a blood alcohol content of .08 percent.  However, laws against this distraction are only as effective as to how people respond to them and how they are enforced.

However, there is now a new tool to combat this problem.  Text-blocking tools or software make it possible to fight technology with technology.  This technology blocks the signals that are transmitted and/or received by mobile devices.  Some cell phone carriers such as Sprint, AT&T, and Nextel are developing their own blocking technologies.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has recently announced that the federal government is also looking into developing this technology as a means to promote public safety.  However, they do have to take into account the input from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).  The FCC recently instituted a crack down on cell phone and GPS jammers becuase of the potential negative impact it could have on emergency communications.  They have said that systems must be devised that maximize traffic safety and do not encumber public or emergency safety responses.

Overall it all comes back to being a responsible, defensive driver.  Eliminating distractions while driving reduces the risk of being involved in a car accident.  While technology is becoming more accessible, it is important to always be focused on driving without distractions.


If you are in need of a Myrtle Beach SC auto accident attorney, Conway lawyer Dirk Derrick at The Derrick Law Firm has been handling car accidents, personal injury, and wrongful death claims in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and Conway SC for over 23 years. Please call 843-248-7486 today.