New Technology Sends Parents Texts When Car Goes Too Fast
Keeping tabs on your teenage son or daughter is tough enough, but it becomes even more nerve-wracking when you hand over the keys to the car. You say you trust them, but in reality, your thoughts run the gamut from worrying about them driving responsibly to driving too fast.
Chrysler has come up with a new product that should work well in this technology-driven age – getting a text message if your car exceeds a predetermined maximum speed.
The Mopar system, created by a company that focuses on recovering stolen vehicles using GPS technology, can also let you to keep track of the car so you know where your teen, or anyone driving the car, is located.
In addition, you’ll be alerted if there is any unauthorized or unknown movement of the vehicle. The new system is not yet available to the public, but should be shortly.
The tracking/speeding system can also help determine if the driver is operating erratically, which can often mean a cell phone is in use. More than 5,000 people were killed and another 500,000 injured in 2009 in car crashes attributed to cell phone use, either talking or texting. And the great majority of new drivers – who have grown up in the technology age – are often the culprits.
While auto manufacturers are making it easier for drivers to be distracted with assorted gizmos that demand attention while driving, from GPS devices to satellite radio to factory-installed Bluetooth devices, the new Mopar system is the first to actually give the owner of a vehicle some security in knowing where that vehicle is and how fast it may be going.
But while technology can help, experts recommend sitting down with your teen driver and thoroughly explaining the dangers of distracted driving. Explaining the consequences to teens for taking risks while driving before the dangers occur may help prevent dangerous car accidents and injuries.
Partner Frank Verderame is a seasoned trial attorney, who has dedicated his life to helping victims of serious injuries. He is a Board Certified Specialist in Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Litigation, and has been an active part of legal communities and organizations since he started his practice, back in 1983.
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