Should Text Message Blockers be Installed in Cars?

We have all heard that texting on the phone is illegal in many states and has caused many vehicle accidents. Well, just as there is a new demand in vehicle safety, someone has created the supply. You can now purchase a device that will block all incoming and outgoing text messages and calls while your car is in gear. Once the car is turned off, your phone will enable your messaging and calling features. The cost is average $25-$70 for the cell phone blocker, and it is projected to be as common as airbags and GPS in the future. Many parents are considering this option, due to the alarming rate of teen reported accidents due to texting. Below are some facts reported on Carlover Magazine.com by Tim Beissmann on November 16, 2010.

• One US study found that drivers are eight times more likely to be involved in an accident while texting, and that texting while driving is equivalent to driving under the influence of four shots of alcohol
• The National Safety Council in the US estimated 28 percent of all American vehicle accidents – or 1.6 million per year – are related to mobile phone distraction, and texting is believed to be responsible for between three and 18 percent of the total
• A 2006 study by the Monash University Accident Research Centre into the effects of text messaging while driving on young people found that the time drivers spent with their eyes off the road increased by up to 400 percent when sending and receiving messages
• A poll by Telstra at the beginning of this year found that almost one third of Australian drivers admitted to sending and receiving texts while behind the wheel.

Take a look at the AT&T documentary below of four separate stories of life changing texts. See how the following simple texts had drastic effects on people involved and try to hold back the tears. (1. yeah 2. lol 3. where u at 4. where r)