The Role of Mobile App Development in Enhancing Road Safety
Mobile apps have recently begun to play an important role in road safety around the world. Smartphone usage is huge, with 91% of Americans owning a smartphone, and clever developers are bringing forward apps that can reduce fatalities and accidents on the roads. From providing real time information about traffic to tools to make driving safer, some apps are making it safer for drivers, passengers and pedestrians.
Alerting Drivers of Potential Hazards
Adam Zayed, an experienced car accident lawyer in Chicago, shares that one of the main ways mobile apps are improving road safety is by alerting drivers of potential hazards and distractions.
Some apps are able to tell whether a driver is speeding, braking suddenly or swerving. They can then deliver audible alerts, encouraging the driver to drive more safely. Other apps are able to make drivers aware of dangerous sections on routes and warn them to be vigilant. Apps like TrueMotion Family Safety go even further and provide coaching tips and behavior analytics with the aim of improving safety over time.
Discouraging Phone Use While Driving
9 deaths every day are caused by distracted driving in the United States. Luckily, apps are being designed to curb this habit. Apps are available that block phone calls, social media notifications, and phone calls when connected to the car’s Bluetooth. Othe apps are able to use motion sensors to detect when the car is moving and restrict phone functionality. These apps are all intended to discourage phone use and promote focusing on the road.
Monitoring Fleets and Teen Drivers
Mobile apps enable parents and fleet managers to monitor the driving habits of teens and employees. Apps like Lytx and Fleetwave allow setting speed limit alerts, tracking location and trip history, and receiving notifications of unsafe maneuvers. This allows managing and coaching drivers based on actual performance data, instead of assumptions. Such monitoring has been shown to reduce risky driving behaviors in monitored groups.
Providing Emergency Assistance After a Car Accident
Cell phones are essential for quickly summoning emergency assistance after a car accident. Apps like RSA Emergency Assist auto-dial emergency services upon detecting a serious collision. Other apps like Realrider SOS for motorcyclists provide automated emergency calling and location sharing if the phone owner has been in a crash and is unresponsive. Such apps are saving lives by getting professional help to the scene faster.
Promoting Safe Pedestrian and Driver Habits
Pedestrians and cyclists must also use roads safely. In 2022, more than 8,000 pedestrians were killed in crashes. Apps aimed at these groups provide useful safety features like toggling between walking, cycling and driving modes to deliver appropriate route guidance. Other apps alert users approaching dangerous intersections or remind them to walk facing oncoming traffic. Apps that promote good judgment and habits for pedestrians and cyclists are enhancing their safety along busy roads. If the worst does happen, car accident attorneys can help.
Mobile app development is playing a pivotal role in promoting safer roadways. Apps that reduce distractions, monitor driving, assist in emergencies, and inculcate safe habits in drivers, pedestrians and cyclists are already preventing many avoidable car accidents and deaths. As mobile and wearable tech advances, apps utilizing the latest innovations will provide even more sophisticated real-time assistance and behavioral improvements to make our roads safer in the future.
