Last Updated on April 27, 2024 by DALA Guest Author
Several U.S. senators have raised concern about 
cell phone apps that may be encouraging driving while intoxicated. Senators Charles Schumer of New York, Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey, Harry Reid of Nevada, and Tom Udall of New Mexico have asked Apple and Google to remove smartphone applications that alert motorists of the locations of police DUI checkpoints, according to PC World. These applications use the GPS capabilities of cell phones to alert drivers of nearby checkpoint locations. Users who see the locations of speed traps, red light cameras, and DUI checkpoints report them and a database of the locations is then stored by the apps. “We know that your companies share our desire to end the scourge of drunk driving, and we therefore would ask you to remove these applications from your store unless they are altered to remove the DUI/DWI checkpoint functionality,” stated the senators in a letter to Apple, Google, and Blackberry maker Research in Motion.
According to Senator Schumer, these applications “endanger public safety by allowing drunk drivers to avoid police checkpoints.” Apps such as Buzzed and FuzzAlert were specifically mentioned by Senator Schumer as examples during a hearing before the newly formed Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy and Technology. Further applications such as Trapster, MrDUI, Checkpoint Wingman, and DUI Dodger are also available for Android and iPhone users.
Some Apps Delete DUI Checkpoint Features
The Senators’ complaints appear to have been heeded. The newest addition of FuzzAlert appears to have deleted the DUI checkpoint feature. Furthermore, a search of Apple’s App Store did not call up either the Buzzed or FuzzAlert application. Both Google and Apple also agreed to report back to Congress after they have reviewed whether these apps violate the companies’ terms of service by helping people commit a crime, namely drunk driving.
Not surprisingly, the makers of the apps do not feel that their products aid people in breaking the law. “We’re doing exactly what the police departments are doing — putting up public service announcements and letting people know there are checkpoints — to deter people from drinking and driving,” said a representative of PhantomAlert, another of the applications in question. For now it appears that Apple at least does not agree. The ongoing collision of new technology and the law will continue to bear watching.
Most of them are seasoned DUI defense attorneys with over 20 years of experience in California's legal system. All hold a Juris Doctor degree from UCLA School of Law and other universities and are members of the California Bar Association. Combined they have successfully defended hundreds of DUI cases, leveraging their deep understanding of local laws and court procedures. They regularly contribute to legal journals and conduct seminars on DUI defense strategies. Passionate about justice, they provide personalized legal support, ensuring their clients receive the best possible defense.
To ensure the accuracy and relevance of this article, we conducted extensive research using a variety of reputable sources. This includes reviewing local government websites, official DUI statistics, and legal databases. We also consulted law enforcement reports and public safety announcements specific to the city. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive and trustworthy information to navigate DUI laws and penalties effectively.
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