Thursday, November 05, 2009
DOT, FCC join forces to combat distracted driving
The Department of Transportation and the Federal Communications Commission on Nov. 4 announced a joint effort to evaluate technologies intended to curb the effects of distracted driving.
According to a press release, officials from DOT and FCC will establish a working group to evaluate technology-based solutions to the dangers of distracted driving, and will coordinate consumer outreach and education as well.
FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski testified, along with Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, during an Oct. 28 hearing (.pdf file) before members of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Genachowski said FCC is consulting with DOT as it institutes a consumer education campaign, and is exploring collaborations to support the safe use of mobile devices.