DriveSmartBC - In Car Television
 

Is it legal to install a television set in a vehicle? There are two answers to this question, one simple and the other complicated. Driver distraction and the possibility of a collision resulting from it is a very real concern.

A television may be installed in a vehicle in view of the driver only when the information displayed on it is required for the operation of the vehicle or safety of the passengers. When installed it must be safely and securely mounted in a position that does not obstruct the view of the driver.

Televisions installed to provide entertainment for the passengers are not regulated when they are mounted out of the driver's view.

A quick search on the word "telematics" on the world wide web resulted in thousands of hits describing how manufacturers and content suppliers are attempting to turn your vehicle into a mobile multimedia system. They offer entertainment, navigation, roadside assistance and telephone service to mention only a few.

The drawback of this is that drivers will use these conveniences while they are driving.

Driving is a complicated task, and people only have so much attention to give. Dividing this attention through the use of telematics takes some of this attention away from the road and focuses it elsewhere. This may significantly increase the risk of a crash merely for the sake of convenience. Is it worth it?

A wise driver will minimize the risk to themselves and other road users by stopping at the roadside to conduct cell phone conversations and use onboard navigation systems. They should not even consider watching the latest video or DVD while they travel to their destination.

Reference Links

Interesting technology in the new Range Rover. Twin View screen:

Obviously a right hand drive vehicle, but the driver and passenger get different displays from the same screen

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WvtgPvKTNw

This was a classic: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/e...ia/7650532.stm