White House: Please Don't Be Dumb and Drive While Wearing the Apple Vision Pro

White House: Please Don't Be Dumb and Drive While Wearing the Apple Vision Pro

The Dangerous Trend of Driving with Apple's Vision Pro: A Reminder on Driver Safety

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has emphasized that the presence of driver assistance features in a car does not justify reckless behavior on the road. In recent days, viral videos of individuals driving while wearing Apple's Vision Pro have alarmed the public, prompting the White House to issue a plea for responsible driving. Despite the dangers involved, countless videos have emerged of people using this gadget while driving, with several videos showcasing Tesla vehicles, including the formidable Cybertruck, which come equipped with driver assistance systems. However, it is crucial to note that these systems, such as Autopilot and Full Self-Driving, do not enable Tesla cars to operate autonomously; drivers must remain fully engaged and attentive at all times.

A Reminder for Reckless Drivers:
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg took notice of these videos and felt compelled to remind these irresponsible drivers that obstructing their vision with the Apple Vision Pro while driving non-autonomous vehicles is a dangerous action. Buttigieg emphasized on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) that all advanced driver assistance systems currently available require human control and constant attentiveness.

Legal Implications and Risks:
The usage of augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR) headsets while driving is illegal in certain states, such as Alaska. Austin McDaniel, communications director at the Alaska Department of Public Safety, confirmed that the use of these devices violates state laws regulating screen usage while driving. In Alaska, this offense is considered a misdemeanor and can escalate to a felony if it results in injury or death. With regards to the viral videos, one of the participants admitted that their actions were meant as a humorous skit. However, this revelation is alarming, especially considering the potential danger posed to other individuals on the road.

Apple's Warning and Lack of Response:
Apple explicitly advises against using the Vision Pro while operating a moving vehicle, emphasizing the importance of safety in its user guide. However, both Apple and Tesla have not responded to inquiries regarding these viral incidents.

Conclusion:
The recent surge in videos featuring individuals driving with Apple's Vision Pro has raised significant concerns about road safety. Despite the existence of driver assistance features in certain vehicles, reckless behavior remains a cause for alarm. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has stressed the importance of remaining alert and engaged while driving, regardless of the availability of technological advancements. It is crucial that drivers adhere to safety guidelines and abstain from using AR/VR headsets while operating a vehicle. The risks posed to oneself and others on the road should be taken seriously, and responsible driving should always be a top priority.