Blackout Technologies recently launched a cell phone blocking tool aimed at reducing the number of vehicle collisions caused by distracted driving.
The “industry-first” in-vehicle solution prevents unauthorized access to smartphone apps and prevents notifications when behind the wheel, removing the temptation for fleet drivers to take their eyes off the road and discouraging illegal device usage, the company reported.
“Cell phone distraction is believed to contribute to as many as 40% of vehicle collisions and has surged in recent years, which represents a huge and growing risk to fleets,” Blackout CEO Mark Hadley said in a news release. “It is responsible for up to 9% of auto crashes resulting in an injury and over 12% of fatal collisions in the U.S., but authorities suspect the real number to be much higher as drivers typically do not report honestly after an incident.
“Research has also found that at any given moment 7.6% of drivers on the road are using a smartphone, so it is time that fleets take action to protect their employees, business and other road users.”
Blackout’s technology uses an app installed on a driver’s smartphone that connects to a Bluetooth beacon within the vehicle, or alternatively, an integrated fleet solution such as a connected dashcam or telematics unit. It activates when the vehicle is in motion, automatically restricting encrypted messaging tools, the camera, and other popular apps, and includes a two-minute delay to prevent drivers using their smartphone when in stationary traffic. The solution provides an added layer of safety, while still allowing hands-free calls, satnav, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and workforce systems.
The technology also possesses crash detection functionality, based on high g-force events, whereby a notification is sent to the driver to verify if a collision has occurred and check on their welfare. An alert is then sent to the fleet manager via the Blackout management portal, which monitors active drivers and live device compliance status. Details of a confirmed incident can also be sent to other specified parties for an efficient safety and claims management response.
“Blackout Technologies has developed a highly effective solution that removes distraction, fosters improved concentration, and ultimately enhances road safety,” Hadley said. “Industry experts anticipate that our technology will reduce collisions caused by smartphone distractions by 10 to 20%, thereby helping to prevent many avoidable road injuries and deaths.
“Additionally, it is expected to enhance fleet performance, lower insurance costs, and protect brand reputation.”