Roswell Personal Injury Attorney Weighs In On The New OrigoSafe Phone Interlock Device
Origo created an ignition interlock device that could be the answer to parent's fears for their teen drivers, according to a Roswell personal injury attorney.
Online, April 3, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Texting while driving causes accidents, but a new device from local company Origo intends to fix that - by preventing cars from starting until the driver's smartphone is safely locked up. Roswell Personal Injury Attorney Tom Rowsey says the device could help in preventing car accidents caused by distracted driving.
The device, known as OrigoSafe, acts like an ignition interlock device - the equipment that prevents repeat drunk drivers from starting a car unless sober. Instead of a breathalyzer, OrigoSafe requires that a phone for a registered driver of the car be inserted into a lockdown device. Without the phone, the car will not move.
The CDC reports more than 9 people are killed and over 1,060 injured from crashes reported to have involved a distracted driver. This includes not only texting, but talking on the phone, reading emails, and even eating while driving.
"They [Origo] talk about how people want to put their phones down in the car, but can't resist the temptation," Rowsey said. "As an opt-in device it could provide many opportunities for the market. Parents would benefit from having it installed in the cars of their teenage drivers. Employers with fleets of cars could benefit from lower insurance if they install it in every car."
While Rowsey agrees that drivers shouldn't use cell phones while driving, he says cell phones are multi-functional tools sometimes needed on the road. "If you're stuck in a traffic jam, it is reasonable to look at a map on your phone for an alternate route, or check the weather. Although many are obsessed and can't put their phones down, even while driving."
OrigoSafe allows hands-free phone calls and texting, but completely covers the screen according to Origo. The phone can be removed without stopping the vehicle in an emergency, but the car will not start again until cleared by an administrator.
"Adults can make their own choice to be responsible on the road," Rowsey said.
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