The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has proposed automakers and smartphone manufacturers work together to prevent distracted driving crashes. Under the proposal, onboard computer systems found in many new vehicles would block features on smartphones from working. Features like video, texting, internet browsing and selfies would be locked while vehicles are in motion. This system would differentiate between passengers and drivers.

It is important to remember that these proposals are voluntary. NHTSA is not forcing smartphone manufacturers to create features that block accessibility. Drivers could also still receive and make phone calls, and use GPS-guided navigation systems.

Lobbyists affiliated with smartphone manufacturers are unhappy with NHTSA’s requests. Critics of the proposal called the guidelines a regulatory overreach. They argue NHTSA was created to regulate the automobile industry, not smartphone makers or app developers.

Why Is the Fight to Prevent Distracted Driving Crashes So Important?

Distracted driving has become a major cause of auto accidents in Colorado and elsewhere. Colorado Department of Transportation statistics show 12 percent of all accidents during 2014 were caused by distracted driving.

Texting has NHTSA alarmed, but using apps while driving is also dangerous. Apps like Pokémon Go and Snapchat have caused collisions. A recent car accident in Florida involved a driver going 115 miles per hour while using Snapchat’s speed filter. Five people were killed.

Do you believe NHTSA has overstepped its regulatory authority by asking mobile phone manufacturers to block accessibility for drivers? Or do you believe automakers and smartphone manufacturers must work together to prevent distracted driving?

Let us know what you think by connecting with the Colorado car accident attorneys at Metier Law Firm on Facebook.