Mobile app alerts parents about their child's unsafe driving

By Staff Writer

A young adult in Massachusetts has designed a mobile application that aims to prevent problem teens from texting and speaking on their phones while driving.

According to USA Today, college student Jon Fischer came up with the idea that led to the Speedbump application, which alerts parents when their children are being unsafe behind the wheel. For example, if the texting, email or browser apps on the phone are open, Speedbump sends a Distracted Driving Alarm to a list of contacts.

In addition, parents can sign into the app and customize speed limits on each type of road. When a teen exceeds those predetermined limits, parents are notified via text and email.

Fischer originally presented the idea at a science fair when he was 16 years old, according to the media outlet. He was motivated after a local adolescent was killed in a car accident.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the U.S. Adolescents between the ages of 16 and 19 are four times more likely to get into a motor vehicle wreck than adults.

Teens who engage in risky behaviors while driving can benefit from tough love. Parents may consider installing an app such as Speedbump on their child's mobile device.