Google Glass and Driving: Safe or Insane?

Should you be allowed to use high-tech Google Glass spectacles while driving? It's an ongoing debate, and now Google itself is finally weighing in on the issue.

Google Glass is a wearable technology that is connected to the Internet. In essence, it's like a hands-free smartphone in the shape of eyeglasses; it allows users to take high-definition (HD) pictures, record HD video, and instantly share recorded content with friends and family using various social Internet platforms, such as Google+, Facebook, and similar.

Among many other features, Google Glass also includes the ability for the wearer to plot a route. In essence, it's like wearing a global positioning system (GPS) device on your head. (Source: google.com)

Controversy Swirls Around 'Glassing' While Driving

The Google Glass GPS functionality seems ideal for heading out on the road. However, there's been a lot of controversy swirling around Google Glass and its use behind the wheel.

Shortly after Google Glass was unveiled, lawmakers in West Virginia openly discussed introducing legislation that would ban state residents from using the spectacles while driving. The issue has stalled for the time being, but those same lawmakers say the matter is hardly finished.

West Virginia is not alone in questioning the safety of 'Glassing' while driving. Several state governments and law enforcement agencies have expressed concern that using such an interactive device will hinder rather than help the act of piloting a vehicle.

In one notable case, a San Diego policeman issued a distracted driving ticket to a woman wearing Google Glass spectacles. The woman fought the measure and won her case because the policeman could not prove the spectacles were turned on when he issued the ticket.

Google Pressures Lawmakers to Dismiss Anti-Glass Driving Laws

Now, it appears Google is trying to make sure police are discouraged from ticketing Google Glass users in the future.

According to Illinois state senator Ira Silverstein, he's been visited by Google representatives hoping to prevent lawmakers from introducing legislation that restricts the use of Google Glass by motorists.

Google has acknowledged that it has entered into these kinds of discussions with lawmakers. In a recent statement, the firm suggested that officials simply need to realize that Google Glass won't distract drivers. In fact, Google suggests that using the device could actually help save lives.

"Technology issues are a big part of the current policy discussion in individual states," Google says. "We think it is important to be part of that discussion and to help policymakers understand new technologies including Glass."

They went on to note that "[Google] Glass is currently in the hands of a small group of Explorers, but we find that when people try it for themselves they realize that Glass is not meant to distract, but rather connect you more with the world around you."

Google Glass Makes Driving Safer, Says User

There are many people who agree that Google Glass does not distract.

Technology expert Chris Barrett recently told CNET that he used his Google Glass spectacles while driving for an astounding 2,500 miles. In the end, he felt sure that the hardware made driving safer. (Source: cnet.com)

"I know for a fact that Google Glass will save lives," Barrett said. He went on to suggest that Google may try to accommodate lawmakers' concerns by introducing a special "Google Glass Car Mode" that restricts access to more distracting applications.

What's Your Opinion?

What do you think about Google Glass? Do you agree that Google Glass can make driving safer, or do you feel the exact opposite? What are the most serious concerns that you have about privacy when it comes to others wearing Google Glass? Lastly, is Google the right company to introduce this type of in-car technology, or would you prefer it come from an automotive firm, or does it matter either way?