Technology to disable cellphone use while driving already exists. Requiring the technology to disable texting while driving as a safety feature (like seat belts and air bags) and rewarding use of the technology with insurance discounts is good public policy: It will save lives and money.
Distracted drivers cause about 6,000 deaths and half a million injuries annually. Everyone, including teens, knows distracted driving is dangerous. Strict laws and educational campaigns have not convinced most drivers to change their habits. The only sure way to prevent drivers from texting behind the wheel is to make texting impossible while driving. Please urge car and mobile phone manufacturers to make texting disabling technology a mandatory safety feature in automobiles.