Technology based on radio frequency identification could prevent people from using their cellphones while driving. Anna University of Technology's Abdul Shabeer and colleagues have designed a system that is capable of detecting whether a driver is using a cellphone while the vehicle is in motion. The system can block phone signals by using a low-range mobile jammer that ensures other passengers might use their phones unhindered.

Moreover, the system could potentially report violations of local laws and provide the vehicle registration number to traffic police. An alternative to integrating the system with police traffic monitoring could be to provide alerts to other passengers in a vehicle when the driver is attempting to use a cellphone.

The researchers believe the technology could help reduce road traffic deaths and have a positive impact on driving overall. "Dialing and holding a phone while steering can be an immediate physical hazard, but the actual conversations also distract a driver's attention," the researchers say.(From:PhysOrg.com)