The following statement was issued today by Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) president and CEO Gary Shapiro regarding the passage of a New York State law banning the use of handheld phones while driving:"The consumer electronics industry is committed to driver safety, and consumer electronics manufacturers consider driver and passenger safety paramount when designing in-car consumer electronics devices. However, while technology can support safety on the road, clear driver focus and proper judgment are even more important.
"CEA shares concern about misuse of in-car devices, but expansive new laws can be a blunt instrument. The sources of potential driver distraction are innumerable, from other passengers to putting on make-up. Laws that seek to target the effect — distracted driving — are a much wiser choice. Such laws are already in place, and proper enforcement of inattentive driving laws would greatly remedy the problem of distracted drivers.
"In addition to the obvious safety benefits gained by allowing drivers to immediately access emergency services, consumer electronics offer a number of other safety benefits. Vehicle navigation systems provide guidance by voice or simple pictogram and keep drivers from having to study maps, written directions or street signs; hands-free phones with voice or one touch dialing allow drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road; and in-vehicle entertainment systems keep children occupied who would otherwise demand the attention of the driver.
"In this regard, CEA is offering consumers a list of safe-usage techniques for mobile electronics devices. This information is available through our Web site at www.CE.org.
"The Consumer Electronics Association advocates that the proper use of mobile electronics devices, including wireless phones, enhances driver safety. This legislation could lead to further restrictions of such devices in vehicles, to the detriment of consumers. We support safe usage through a program of public education, not legislation, to increase driver safety."
CEA represents more than 650 U.S. companies involved in the design, development, manufacturing and distribution of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $70 billion in annual sales.
Link for more info: www.CE.org
