New York wants police to scan smartphones after an accident to see who’s been texting and driving

In a move to limit smartphone usage while driving, lawmakers are proposing legislation that allows police to test your device after an accident. With road fatalities up 8% in 2015, public service campaigns have been looking for new ways to help stop the distracted driving.

If you are in an accident or are pulled over while driving, the new law would give police officers authority to use a device called the Textalyzer. The device would be able to access your phone and check your most recent activity, giving some insight as to what you were doing on your phone before the accident occurred.

Currently, New York seems to be the only state pushing for device scanner, but it’s probably being looked at more as a base, before other states back the idea. The Textalyzer also determines whether you had performed any actions that are illegal under New York’s hands-free driving laws and allow for the police officer to act accordingly.

If passed, the law will still give you the right to refuse the testing, but that could lead to the suspension of your driver’s license, if not more. The easiest solution? Stop texting while driving and leave your phone in your pocket or purse while on the road. It could save your life and the lives of others.

[via NY Times]