A Radar Gun That Detects Texting While Driving

A Virginia company plans to produce a radar gun that will detect texting while driving. This product would help law officers catch drivers in states where texting while driving is illegal. The company, ComSonics, says the device is “close to production,” although it will have to get legislative approval before it would be available to law enforcement.

The radar device will detect radio frequencies that emit from a vehicle when someone inside is using a cell phone. According to ComSonics, different frequencies emit from a text message, phone call and data transfer. The device will be able to distinguish between these frequencies. Although there are privacy concerns surrounding the new device, ComSonics says the device cannot read the information being sent in the messages. Others have questioned how the radar gun would distinguish between whether a driver was texting or a passenger. This information has not been released.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 44 states have banned texting while driving including Pennsylvania. The law in Pennsylvania, prohibits any driver from using a cell phone to send, read or write a text-based communication while the vehicle is in motion. If caught, a driver can be fined $50.00, plus court costs and fees. The ban does not include the use of a GPS device that is physically or electronically integrated in the vehicle.

Studies show that texting while driving dramatically slows a driver’s reaction time and can significantly increase the likelihood of a motor vehicle accident. Texting while driving puts you, other motorists and pedestrians at risk. When behind the wheel, your attention should be focused on the road and your surroundings.

If you were involved in an accident that was caused by a distracted driver, contact the personal injury attorneys at Berger and Green.

Source:

PilotOnline.com, “New device in the works to catch texting drivers”

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Anti-Texting Law Facts

GHSA, “Distracted Driving Laws”