If you're using smartphone apps like Checkpointer, Buzzed, or Fuzz Alert Pro to find out where the local DUI checkpoints are in the Valley, then you may soon need to find a new way to get that information. According to CNN, four U.S. senators are now asking Apple, Google, and BlackBerry maker Research in Motion to stop selling apps that help drivers avoid DUI checkpoints. Research in Motion has already apparently agreed to stop selling such apps.
The lawmakers say that the smartphone apps give impaired drivers "a free tool to evade checkpoints, putting innocent families and children at risk." However, Phoenix DUI attorneys and app makers might disagree and say that these smartphone apps do not present a harm to public safety. Other critics of the proposal say that the government shouldn't be controlling the app market.
The Wall Street Journal reports that makers of the app “Buzzed” say that the purpose of their application is to send a message that local police departments are cracking down on driving under the influence, which can cause drivers to think twice about getting behind the wheel. Why shouldn’t new forms of technology be used to inform drivers of how DUI crimes are enforced?
If Phoenix drivers want to learn where local DUI checkpoint locations are on a particular night, they can usually find out the locations through law enforcement websites or through the local tweets on Twitter. It will take more than banning certain apps to stop drunk driving on the roads.
Related Resources:
- Find a Phoenix DUI Attorney (FindLaw)
- R U Buzzed? - iPhone Application Could Prevent DUI (Phoenix DUI Blog)
- Social Networking Warns Drivers of DUI Checkpoints (Phoenix DUI Blog)
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