Wed Dec 17, 2008 10:25PM EST
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There's a new tool out there for parents wanting to ensure their kids are not
texting or talking on the phone while driving. This new tool called
Key2SafeDriving is essentially a computerized car key that sends a wireless
signal to the driver's mobile phone blocking an incoming and outgoing calls
and texts.
When the car key is in the ignition, the driver's phone goes into driving mode and sends a text message to anyone who attempts to call them while they're on the road. This system can also alert parents with a text message if the teen driver attempts to use their phone while behind the wheel. One benefit of using this system involves a "safety score" that's sent to insurance companies in order to reward motorists with good scores and good driving habits.
The system was designed by Xuesong Zhou and Wallace Curry, and is expected to go into production as soon as next year. Its cost is estimated to be $50, and may involve a monthly service fee. You can watch a video of this new technology here.
Our team is on it and we should have everything back to normal shortly. Please come back soon.