Volvo Supports Distracted Driver Laws

Automaker supports federal legislation to control cell phone use in cars

Volvo tests its new autobrake system

Within the past three years, two triathletes in my neighborhood were hit by cars. One almost died. In both cases, the cyclists were obeying the traffic laws, but the car drivers were temporarily distracted.

This week, a two-day summit in Washington DC addresses distracted driving; specifically legislation that would control the way drivers can use cell phones in their cars. Although it is not a summit participant, Volvo is supporting federal legislation through full-page newspaper ads and a YouTube video.

“With the proliferation of cell phone use and text messaging while behind the wheel, distracted driving is on the rise and is a leading cause of traffic accidents,” said Doug Speck, president and CEO of Volvo Cars North America. “Reasonable laws that help focus a driver’s attention on the road will help reduce collisions, just as laws to enforce seat belt use have helped save lives.”

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, seven states currently outlaw the use of cell phones without a hands-free device while driving: eighteen states prohibit text messaging. Both activities are barred in DC.

Volvo is currently developing an auto-brake system specifically to protect pedestrians. To learn more about Volvo safety research, visit the company web site.