New York State to consider ‘textalyser’ technology

Two New York State politicians, together with a road safety advocacy organisation are aiming to introduce a new law requiring police to scan drivers’ mobile phones for possible activity in the run up to collisions.

The proposed legislation is linked to development of technology nicknamed a ‘textalyser’ which claims to be able to scan a mobile device for recent activity such as calling or texting, without releasing personal information. The system could be carried out by police at the crash site, much as drivers are required to use a breathalyser to detect alcohol consumption.