Hi-tech car gadgets blamed for dozens of road deaths

Hi-tech car gadgets are causing dozens of fatal ­accidents every year, says a report out today.

Satnav systems, phones and ­internet access are now standard features in many new cars.

But an investigation by consumer group Which? warns that touchscreen devices distract drivers and increase the risk of road crashes.

Which? tested the systems of eight of the UK’s bestselling car makers and found many features difficult to use while driving.

To limit the dangers, the watchdog has drawn up an in-car technology safety ­charter which it will be discussing with the Department for Transport, road safety groups and car makers.

Which? says motorists shouldn’t have to look away from the road for more than two seconds to operate dashboard controls.

Other ­recommendations ­include installing dedicated buttons for key functions and raising consoles so drivers don’t have to glance down.

Which? Car editor Richard Headland said: “We found the sheer number of ways to carry out simple tasks in the cars was baffling, and crying out to be simplified.

“We know people want systems in their car that integrate audio, phone, satnav and other functions, but it’s time for the Government to step in and provide some strong guidance to focus car makers on creating less distracting systems.”

Figures show four per cent of all road deaths in 2010 were ­attributed to distractions, excluding those caused by drivers using mobiles.

Dr Natasha Merat of Leeds ­University’s Institute for Transport Studies said: “Looking away from the road can lead to increased brake reaction time and likelihood of ­straying out of your lane.”

(www.mirror.co.uk)