NSA Receives New High-Tech Tools to Help Address the
Dangers of Distracted Driving
By Fred Zwonecheck, Office of Highway Safety
The Nebraska Sheriff’s Association has received two new high-tech tools to bring attention to the dangers associated with distracted driving. Thanks to the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety, AAA, and the Cornhusker Motor Club Foundation, the Association’s arsenal of education and training tools now includes two VirtualDriver Interactive simulator units which will be available to law enforcement agencies for fairs, school/community events, and safety/health conferences. Grant funds of approximately $20,000 were made available for this effort.
Each unit is equipped with three computer screens giving the user a realistic panoramic view of the roadway. The driver needs to pay attention to everything occurring around the vehicle including the action of other cars, motorcyclists and emergency vehicles approaching in the rearview mirrors featured on the screens. The units are also equipped with a steering wheel which easily attaches to a table, that features turn signals and other hand controls. Foot pedals used for braking and acceleration, are positioned on the floor.
The software program allows the user to experience many driving conditions and variables. Weather conditions can be adjusted to clear, wet, and snow or ice. The user may select daytime or nighttime driving conditions, as well.
These two interactive units are valuable tools when demonstrating the dangers associated with distracted driving. The simulators provide the user with challenging driving situations, without putting the driver at risk.
After the user becomes comfortable with the controls and driving conditions, test their multi-tasking skills by calling the driver on his/her cell phone. Engage them in conversation or ask them to send a text message. Most drivers will find that it is impossible to maintain the appropriate level of concentration needed to safely control their vehicle.