Ray LaHood is the U.S. Transport Secretary. He is also a man on a mission: to reduce those driving distractions that are believed to be partially responsible for some 5,500 deaths and 500,000 injuries in 2010, accounting to almost 10 percent of all traffic deaths, according to data provided by the Department of Transportation (DoT).
Although LaHood does not support extreme measures, like completely banning hands-free calling while driving, he is determined to limit the use of any equipment that distract the driver’s attention.
“Distracted driving is a dangerous and deadly habit on America’s roadways”, said LaHood. “That’s why I’ve made it a priority to encourage people to stay focused behind the wheel.”
Therefore, the administration has proposed that car manufacturers take voluntary steps in establishing new safety guidelines for all the electronic equipment that is becoming increasingly popular in new cars.
LaHood wants automakers to make distracting systems such as texting, Internet browsing and access to social media, inoperable from the driver while the vehicle is on the move.
The DoT has put its guidelines on a 60-day public comment period, while the NHTSA will hold meetings in Los Angeles, Washington and Chicago next month.
Naturally, auto manufacturers who have invested a lot in developing and advertising advanced infotainment systems on their new models are not willing to give them up.
The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which represents carmakers, said that even though they are open to discussion, some of the guidelines are outdated.
“Consumers expect to have access to new technology”, the Alliance said in a statement. “Integrating and adapting this technology to enable safe driving is the solution.”
Story References: Reuters
