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New DC signs will flag people who are driving and using their phones

The new sign technology warns people who are using their phones while driving to put their: "Phone Down."

WASHINGTON — You have seen speed signs while driving.  They tell you to slow down when speeding. But this is a new one,  a sign that detects when you are on your phone and driving.

Driving while distracted is a 21st century problem with deadly consequences.

“Last year nationally, 3,500 people died from distracted driving-related crashes,”  Rick Birt from DC’s Highway Safety Office said.

It needs a 21st century solution.

RELATED: 600 deaths on Maryland roads in 2023 – the most in nearly 20 years

 “I drove by one of the radar feedback signs one day and let’s just say the light went off,” Tim Hogan from SmartSign said.

“I spent years really trying to develop  these special sensors that will identify if someone is on their phone,” Hogan explained.

Hogan housed a battery of infrared technology in a small box. From years of tinkering, he said he created technology that can do that.

“What it actually does is, look for a certain (heat) signature to detect if there is a phone in someone’s hand,” he said.

When it does detect a phone, the sensor relays a message to a sign in front of the driver that reads: “Phone Down.”

We wanted to see if it would work. So I went for a drive with my phone in my hand and sure enough,

“Phone Down” Matt!

“We are hoping to change behaviors so our roads can be safer for everyone,” Birt said.

Thursday DC rolled out two of the SmartSigns in the District. They will also alert drivers of their speed and if they are not wearing one, to put on a seatbelt.

But read closely: No tickets.

“It’s not gonna be used for citations, but it's something that will need thoughtful consideration in the future,” Birt said.

Although can you blame some district residents for being skeptical.

“For now,” one driver said as he walked by the SmartSign. “We know what happens next right?”

The first locations for the signs will be on Georgia Avenue and Benning Road. But, they are not stationary. They will move around the city and collect data.

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