As of July 1, 2008, using cell phone handsets while driving will be banned in California and Washington, making them the states to enact the law. Poking fun at the new regulation is this YouTube video quickly gaining popularity called, "Kid fails driving test 5 times in a day."
The clip was created by a young teen who hid a camera in his dashboard and went to take his road test with five different instructors, on each occasion, obnoxiously using his cell phone, despite their requesting him not to.
The teen rebuts by arguing the ban is not yet in effect.
The ad is a promotion for Parrot, a company specializing in hands-free mobile devices and Blue Tooth, technologies that will still be permitted once the new regulations go into effect. The video is meant to demonstrate the need for hands-free devices for drivers since cell phones are a distraction for both drivers and passengers.
Hidden Cameras on Road Tests
"Kid Fails Driving Test 5 Times" Parrot Ad
Trend Themes
1. Banning Cell Phones While Driving - Opportunity for companies to innovate and create hands-free mobile devices for drivers.
2. Hidden Cameras for Accountability - Potential for creating hidden camera technologies to monitor and ensure compliance with regulations.
3. Raising Awareness Through Viral Videos - Opportunity to use creative videos to educate and raise awareness about distracted driving and its consequences.
Industry Implications
1. Hands-free Mobile Devices - Companies specializing in hands-free mobile devices can capitalize on the need for safer communication while driving.
2. Surveillance and Security - Surveillance technology companies can develop hidden camera solutions for accountability and regulation enforcement.
3. Digital Advertising and Marketing - Opportunity for advertising and marketing agencies to create impactful viral campaigns to raise awareness about distracted driving.