IIHS Says Smartphones Can Be Used As Crucial Driving Safety Feature

Things are constantly improving, with the latest versions of some apps allowing for important messages to get through to the driver. Apps such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also enable users to use the navigation and music functions, although this, too, can be distracting if not used safely and correctly.

However, the IIHS believes more can be done to achieve safer driving practices. Reagan writes that Google and other smartphone companies can learn from Apple, asking users during the initial phone setup if they want "Do Not Disturb" to be turned on automatically when the device detects the user is driving. Regan suggests this could be the default setting, forcing users to override it manually if they want notifications coming through while driving.

The IIHS further suggests that video game functionality should be limited when displayed on the vehicle's touchscreen. Smartphone makers can also block apps that encourage speeding or dangerous driving behavior by removing them from app stores.

Reagan notes it took SnapChat eight years to removethe controversial speedometer filter. Several safety advocates argued it could encourage speeding and believe it was a factor in many high-speed crashes involving younger drivers.

But hazard prevention is only the beginning: smartphone manufacturers should also look at technology that improves safety for all road users. While most modern vehicles, such as theVolvo XC90and BMW 7 Series, are kitted out with sophisticated crash-prevention systems, most American motorists still drive older cars that lack these features.

We've already seen new appsintroduce life-saving features, such as forward-collision warning, to older cars by using smartphones. Reagan notes that while most car manufacturers have installed AEB (automatic emergency braking) in most new vehicles, it will only be commonplace in the US fleet around 2050.

"In the meantime, if an app could provide FCW [forward-collision warning] that meets the US regulatory requirements for in-vehicle systems, everybody with a phone would instantly have access to a valuable driver assistance feature," he added.

Even before the advent of the cellphone, distracted driving has been an issue. Many motorists insist on eating behind the wheel,carrying a pet on their lapswhile driving, or just occupying their time with something they deem more important than safe driving. While technology can make for safer roads, we also owe it to ourselves and other motorists to practice restraint and drive safely.

"If the smartphone could become a tool to combat not only device-based distraction but also other types of distraction and unsafe driving, that would be a truly remarkable turnaround," concluded Reagan.