CEA Encourages Motorists to Drive Smart with In-Car Technologies
ARLINGTON, Va.--As 38 million motorists prepare to hit the road this Memorial Day, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA®) reminds drivers that in-car technologies can not only keep passengers entertained, but can also keep them safe. To help prepare drivers for weekend road trips with friends and family, CEA today announced the re-launch of DigitalDriver.org, an online resource that educates consumers on the latest technologies to help reduce distractions, while making car trips more pleasant and relaxing.
The upgraded DigitalDriver.org features proper usage information for mobile video, GPS Systems, and portable music and video devices, a road quiz that tests consumer knowledge of safe driving, facts about new mobile electronics and their individual features, and provides a link to retailers that can aid in the safe installation of mobile electronic devices. The website also gives drivers tips for reducing distractions and reaching their destinations safely, along with an interactive map detailing the laws and provisions governing the use of consumer electronics in vehicles for each state.
“Concentration is paramount while driving,” said Gary Shapiro, CEA’s president and CEO. “The slightest distractions can sometimes prove to be harmful. For a safer drive, there are many current and emerging mobile electronics devices that actually help to eliminate distractions, allowing drivers to drive smart.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), driver distractions – reaching, talking, eating, reading maps – contribute to 20 to 30 percent of all vehicular collisions, which is approximately 1.2 million accidents annually. Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and mobile video, along with mounted portable music and video devices can remove these distractions, allowing for easy passenger entertainment and “hands-free” navigation for the driver. Mobile video and GPS systems are rapidly becoming vehicle “it” tools. CEA market research shows that consumer interest in GPS systems is up and the technology enjoys an 80 percent owner satisfaction rate.
During long trips, mobile video can entertain backseat passengers, especially children, which can help to keep the driver focused on the road ahead. In addition, the latest cell phone features and accessories such as wireless headsets, voice dialing, and speakerphone functions also help minimize distractions and allow drivers to keep their hands on the wheel.
“When used appropriately, these devices are amazingly beneficial and can aid the driver in keeping focused at all times,” noted Shapiro. “But drivers should also remember to follow all state laws and think smart when driving and using these devices. Pull over to use cell phones, enter the destination into GPS systems and set music devices before driving the vehicle. All of these are reasonably simple steps to eliminate distractions and to keep drivers safe.”
For more information, visit www.DigitalDriver.org.
About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, digital imaging, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $140 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES – Defining Tomorrow’s Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.
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