All it takes is a split second. Diverting your eyes from the road for just a moment to check or send a text message can equal a lifetime of consequences.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines distracted driving as any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving—including texting. An estimated 2,841 people were killed, and another 400,000 were injured by distracted driving in 2018.
The risks of distracted driving are far greater for teens. One study found that teen drivers increase their risk of crashing by 700% just by reaching for a phone. The NHTSA estimates that at a speed of 55 mph, a driver will cover the length of a football field in the time it takes to send or read a message (an average of five seconds).
Experiencing first-hand the hazards of distracted driving within a safe, controlled environment can help educate drivers about these dangers. We’ve developed two innovative texting and driving simulators designed to bring to life how easily a driver can lose focus and control.
Read on to learn more and decide which texting and driving simulator is the best fit for your audience.
The Roadster Pedal Kart and SIDNE (Simulated Impaired Driving Experience) electric vehicle both provide a more realistic driving simulation than virtual reality simulators. When used with our Drowsy & Distracted Goggles, these texting and driving simulators give participants a hands-on recreation of what it’s like to experience delayed reactions behind the wheel.
The Roadster Pedal Kart and the SIDNE vehicle both deliver a meaningful experience for drivers, onlookers, and the community, but there are some key differences to consider.
| Roadster Pedal Kart | SIDNE | |
| Overview | Manually-operated pedal kart | Motorized electric vehicle with gas and brake pedals |
| Age recommendations | Better suited for a younger audience (age 11 and older) | Participants must be of driving age (age 15 or older, with a driver’s permit) |
| Environment |
Can be used:
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Can be used:
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| Minimum space requirements |
100 x 15 feet |
100 x 100 feet |
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Seating |
Single operator |
Seating for driver and passenger |
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Protective gear |
Roadster Pedal Kart Drowsy & Distracted Driving Course package: two safety helmets with sanitary fabric caps and two pairs of safety glasses |
SIDNE Basic: two safety helmets with sanitary fabric caps and two pairs of safety glasses SIDNE Ultimate: four helmets and four pairs of glasses |
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Safety considerations |
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Required materials for operation |
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Training and resources |
User guide including proper use and safety precautions included Optional on-site training (at additional cost) |
User guide including proper use and safety precautions included Full day of on-site training (included) |
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Maintenance |
Minimal |
May include charging batteries, maintaining tire pressure, monitoring drive belt and tire wear, and periodically changing transmitter batteries. |
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Starting cost |
$799 |
$14,890 |
There are a number of benefits to implementing texting and driving simulators in your driver education and awareness programming and we’re here to help you choose the right simulator. To learn more about the SIDNE distracted driving simulator or the Roadster distracted driving simulator, contact us online or call 800.272.5023.
5 Benefits of Using Distracted Driving Simulators
To effectively teach at-risk populations about safe driving, engaging educational tools and activities can make a life-changing difference. Our distracted driving simulators are the perfect tool to accomplish this task for your teen driving safety program.
What is a Texting and Driving Simulator?
Texting and driving simulators can safely teach teens about the dangers and consequences of distracted driving in a meaningful way.
Safety Features to Look For in a Distracted Driving Simulator
While distracted driving simulators like our SIDNE® vehicle and Roadster Pedal Kart are inherently safe to use, certain safety features can add peace of mind for participants, their parents, and educators.