Statistics and stories of tragic accidents make it clear that texting while driving is a negligent and dangerous act. Still, efforts to combat the problem and significantly reduce distraction-related crashes have been sluggish and not as effective as many hoped. However, one device from a Roanoke-based company may be able to provide the technology that helps businesses, parents, and drivers everywhere put an end to texting behind the wheel.
Origo is the manufacturing company behind the OrigoSafe, a device that prevents motorists from texting while driving. According to the company, the device functions in many ways like ignition interlock devices that prevent drunk drivers from starting a vehicle when the device detects the presence of alcohol on their breath.
Here are some more details about the device:
- OrigoSafe is an ignition interlocking system that prevents drivers from starting their vehicles until their cellphone is placed into a docking station. If the phone is not fully in the docking station, the car will not start.
- Drivers are not able to see or touch their phone while it is in the docking station, but they are still able to use hands-free devices to place calls or send voice texts.
- The device costs approximately $399 with installation. Origo plans to introduce a new affordable product this fall.
A large percentage of Origo’s customers include trucking companies and commercial businesses with fleets of vehicles, as it provides business owners with the ability to ensure their drivers won’t text behind the wheel. Devices are also gaining popularity for use in school buses and by parents of teen drivers or young adults.
Although it is still a young company, Origo has a promising future in producing devices that can make our roads safer places. With roughly 3,200 deaths and 500,000 injuries caused by cellphone-related crashes annually, it’s clear there is room for improvement. As a firm that has worked with victims who were injured by distracted truck drivers, bus drivers, and even train operators, we believe a device like the OrigoSafe can have a substantial impact if it became standard on all commercial carriers.
We share this story not only to help businesses and families that may find it useful, but also to stress the importance of keeping our public roads and highways safe. We know the unfortunate reality of how dangerous text messaging can be when behind the wheel, and we’ve seen victims and families have their lives turned upside down simply because a text message was more important to someone at that time.
Remember, text messaging and the handheld use of cellphones is illegal for all drivers in the District of Columbia. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a crash caused by someone who was texting or using their cellphone at the time, our personal injury attorneys are available to review your case free of charge and discuss whether you may be entitled to compensation. To speak with a lawyer, contact Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. today.
