New technology is offering parents a way to keep an eye on young drivers without having to ride in the car with them.
The DriveCam system begins recording when it senses bad driving. It records video which is sent directly to parents over the internet.
The camera captures accidents as they they happen. Example videos provided by the DriveCam show two teens involved in a rollover crash and a young driver crashing while using her cell phone.
Any sudden movement activates the camera. The idea is to show drivers their risky behavior in order to change it. It's even used as a tool by the local driver's education program, I Drive Smart.
DriveCam has examined more than three million mishaps to look for common mistakes drivers make when getting in an accident.
They company found most accidents happen at intersections; when drivers follow too closely; speeding; and distractions, including cell phones.
A Virginia Tech study of drivers in the D.C. area shows crash risk is increased by almost three times when dialing a hand-held phone, and by almost one-and-half times when just talking on the phone.
But the company found the biggest problem is drivers not wearing seat belts.
DriveCam shows one cab driver being tossed into the backseat, and partly out a window, because he wasn't wearing his.
"About two-thirds of the adults and about three-quarters of the kids who get in accidents are unbelted," said Bruce Moller of DriveCam.
The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute is taking a look at the risky behavior behind teen driving. The study's results are expected later this year.
For more information, visit: http://www.drivecam.com
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