GPS Satellite Navigation Systems under attack in Spain

GPS Satellite Navigation Systems under attack in Spain
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By h.b. - Jul 18, 2007 - 3:53 PM

The Director General of Tráfico, Pere Navarro - Photo EFE

The Traffic Authority want to fine drivers who program the devices while the vehicle is in motion

Spain’s Traffic Authority, DGT, has said that it plans to act against the use of GPS Satellite Navigation systems in cars.

The DGT consider that it’s a contradiction to fine people who are distracted when driving by using their mobile phones, but not to do so when people program their GPS system, a process which can often take some 30 seconds to complete.

They propose fines of up to 300 € and the loss of three driving points for those who program the GPS while the vehicle is in motion, and are therefore studying changing the Spanish Ley de Seguridad Vial to add the GPS to the list of serious infractions.

The head of the DGT, Pere Navarro, has confirmed the intention and reminded the press that it was distractions which cause more than half of the accidents on motorways during the months of July and August in Spain.

The DGT has also written to the manufacturers of GPS systems asking them to adapt their devices to ensure that they cannot be programmed when the vehicle is in motion.

Navarro admitted however that it would take the manufacturers some time to respond to that, and in the meantime fines would have to suffice.

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