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Consumer Reports tests two devices that monitor teen driving habits |
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Written by Consumer Reports
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May 13, 2007 at 06:01 PM |
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Page 1 of 5  Consumer Reports tests two devices that monitor teen driving habits, focusing on pros, cons and privacy issues. 
Event Data Recorders (EDRs) are used in millions of vehicles to track things such as speed, safety-belt use, and air-bag deployment following a crash. Now, aftermarket EDRs are available that parents can install in their vehicle to track their teen's driving habits. We recently tested two, the CarChipE/X with Alarm ($199) from Davis Instruments and the RS-1000 from Road Safety International ($280). We found the RS-1000 to be the better, although more expensive, system. The safety risk of teen drivers
Young drivers' limited experience and immaturity have proven to be a dangerous combination. The hazard is so great that car crashes are deemed the leading public health problem facing teenagers, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) statistics show 5,896 people between 16 and 20 years of age died from motor vehicle crashes in 2004. Another 456,000 were injured. To make matters worse, the IIHS cites studies that have shown high school driver-education programs can even add to the problem because they put inexperienced drivers on the road at a young age. An IIHS report claims training and education don't change the poor decision making and thrill-seeking behavior common in teens. This safety risk has caused many states to initiate graduated licensing programs that restrict teens in their early driving phase. It has also created a desire for some parents to monitor and manage their children's motoring.
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Last Updated ( Aug 18, 2007 at 03:17 PM )
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