Last fall, there was the story about a train crash in which the engineer was suspected of texting just moments before impact (see this October story from Reuters). Now, a study offers evidence as to the dangers of texting while operating a vehicle—large trucks, specifically—according to a story in this week’s New York Times.
Years ago, the wireless industry ran a number of public relations campaigns to encourage drivers to finish their phone call before hitting the road... or at least, invest in a hands-free device which would theoretically make the practice of talking while driving less dangerous. I’m no political scientist, but the messaging appeared to me like an effort to prove that the industry is capable of disciplining its’ own consumers, and that no outside regulation was necessary.
Years later, with the increasing popularity of text messages, Internet- and email-capable smart phones and other applications that require our visual as well as audible attention… the trend toward distracted driving might again be placing the wireless industry—and its customers—at risk of outside intervention. (A number of states have already made it a ticketable offense to text while driving; eager for new streams of revenue and increased public safety, other states are almost sure to follow.)
Implications: Accident investigators, personal injury lawyers and insurance companies are getting more and more sophisticated about the cause and effect of distracted driving. A cell phone call or text message leaves a “digital fingerprint” that is easy to follow. Don’t be too surprised to hear a public relations campaign—sponsored by members of the wireless industry—encourage more responsible use of their product. (Reminiscent of “please drink responsibly.”)
What kinds of behaviors within your company or category could invite unwanted regulation? Is there anything you could do to head-off those headaches?
Mike Anderson
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