Inattentive driving is cited as the cause in 1 in 4 auto accidents, but those who track the data suggest that distracted drivers likely cause more than 25 percent of accidents. One of the biggest distractions is the driver’s cell phone, and some states have passed legislation that prevents their use while driving, but that doesn’t stop motorists from eyeing their phone every time they receive a text.
Combating texting and driving is difficult, as it’s tough for a cop to prove a driver was looking at his phone, especially if the driver knows his rights. But that may soon change, as engineers are creating a new sensor-type gun that can detect if a driver if texting while driving.
How It Works
The sensor guns are still in development, but they work by searching for voice, text and data frequencies that are emitted by cell phones while in use. That means if a police officer points the gun at your vehicle and picks up a text message frequency, you might soon see the cherries in your rearview mirrow.
Those fearing that the guns would be an invasion of privacy should note that the guns would not be able to intercept the text message, only register that a text frequency is being emitted.
Also, the guns won’t be able to determine exactly who sent the text, so an officer might pick up a frequency if you’re shuttling a bunch of texting teenagers. The officer won’t be able to cite you for texting and driving unless you admit to the crime, unless of course you are the only person in the vehicle. At that point, you’re kind of up a creek without a paddle.
Going Forward
The devices will certainly help keep drivers safe by ticketing those who choose to text and drive, but the technology still has a few hurdles to climb. The sensor needs to be supported by state and federal legislators, and by police agencies. Also, you can bet that an experienced Minnesota traffic ticket attorney will challenge the ticket in a court of law.
Texting and driving is a serious concern, but does that give police the right to radar for phone use? What do you think?
