Ontario is revamping its busy highways to now offer designated texting zones throughout so that drivers can have a safe space to pull over and use their cellphones. The newly appointed areas are designed to decrease the use of smartphones while driving, by offering periodical pit stops that drivers can pullover into to safely access social media, make calls or text during long trips. The design is an effort to help reduce texting while driving.
While there are currently fines and penalties in place if a driver is caught using a smartphone behind the wheel, many consumers continue to do so. Ontario is hoping to decrease this by offering stops along its highways designed specifically for texting and smartphone use. The areas will be called 'Texting Zones' and will allow for temporary stops to safely use tech devices.
Vehicle-Texting Zones
Ontario is Specializing Highway Areas For Drivers to Safely Use Cellphones
Trend Themes
1. Texting Zones on Highways - Opportunity for companies to innovate and create secure, hands-free technology for drivers to communicate while on the road.
2. Distracted Driving Prevention - Potential for companies to develop more advanced technology to detect and prevent distracted driving behaviors.
3. Safe Driving Campaigns - Opportunity to launch educational campaigns, including media promotions, to increase awareness of the dangers of texting while driving and the benefits of using dedicated Texting Zones.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Industry - Automakers have the opportunity to integrate technology such as voice-activated assistants, touch-screen controls, and automated safety features that increase driver safety and reduce the need for handheld phone use.
2. Telecommunications Industry - Telecom companies can explore creating specialized plans targeted towards drivers, including hands-free plans, flexible data options and family plans the user can use to communicate on the road.
3. Government Agencies - Transportation agencies and relevant government bodies can encourage the adoption of safe driving practices and support campaigns that promote the use of Texting Zones to improve roadway safety and reduce distracted driving-related accidents.