Event Data Recorders ( EDRs ) are used in millions of vehicles to keep track of things such as speed, use of seat belts , airbags and distribution as a result of an accident. Now , EDR aftermarket are available that parents can install in your vehicle to monitor the driving habits of their teen .
Two products include:
CarChipE / X with Alarm ( $ 199 ) from Davis Instruments
RS -1000 of Road Safety International ($ 280)
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Limited experience and immaturity of young drivers have proven to be a dangerous combination . The danger is so great that road accidents are considered as the main public health problem facing adolescents , according to the ' Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS ) . Statistics National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ) show 5,896 people between 16-20 years of age died in car accidents in 2004. Another 456,000 were injured. ? ? To make matters worse, the ' IIHS cites studies that have shown the pilot programs for high school education can also add to the problem because they put inexperienced drivers on the road at a young age . A report by IIHS supports the training and education do not change the decision-making process and the poor seeking behavior common in teens. ?
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How to install DEVICES ? To use both devices must be connected to the On-Board Diagnostics II that all new cars have been fitted since 1996. Originally designed to monitor the performance of the transmission system , the OBDII port is also where the mechanics connect to the network diagnostic of a car. From this , engineers can control the different systems, such as emissions , powertrain and safety equipment for proper operation. Most OBDII ports are located in the lower part of the dashboard near the driver's seat. If the port is in another place, a sticker should indicate where it can be found. ?
THE BOTTOM LINE ? Any device that could encourage safe driving and help reduce teen fatalities has a charm , as long as the protection of privacy are in place to prevent misuse of data or surprise to consumers.
