Apple (UK) Limited, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) United Kingdom arm, is facing serious challenges after British authorities warned that the new watch, released about a week ago, is a highway threat. The authorities said that any motorist who causes an accident and is found wearing the Apple iWatch could face stern penalties.
Information has it that British regulators are taking immediate measures to curb any possible accidents that might stem from the use of the wearable by a motorist while driving. Those thinking of using the watch while driving should think again, as they might be forced to part with roughly $163 and 3 points on their driving record. The punishments could be even heavier in a case where the driver causes a deadly crash.
“Enforcement will be difficult for the police,” acknowledged IAM’s Greig, “but powers exist to seize and interrogate devices in the event of a serious crash. The very device that distracted you also has the power to convict you.”
The announcement comes amid growing concern in different countries over the high level of distraction caused by mobile phones and other devices. Safety professionals have seriously questioned the addition of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) watch to the market, arguing that it could just be another addition to the list of many gadgets that distract drivers.
According to the UK’s Institute for Advanced Motorists, the watch, whose sale in the U.K. is being undertaken by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), has the potential of considerably impairing a driver’s focus. The organization was quick to point out an earlier study that revealed that nearly 2,000 road accidents in Britain were caused by motorists who were distracted by mobile phones.
“Having a wristwatch linked to users’ mobile phone only suggests a higher proportion of drivers’ performance will be significantly impaired,”
the organization said in a statement.
In the U.S., several regulators have voiced their concerns about distracted driving, which is said to cause one accident in every eleven on North American roads. However, such regulators haven’t made comments specifically about Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) iWatch.
Apple (UK) Limited too hasn’t issued any statement on the unfolding events.
This article has been written by Victor Ochieng.
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