Proposed guidelines have been revealed in the US to implement a 'Driver Mode' for smart phones - in a bid to limit distractions caused by mobile and other electronic devices once driving.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released the guidelines, which could have a knock on effect here in the UK, and covers a ‘second phase’ to address driver distraction on U.S. roads. The first phase focused on devices or systems built into the vehicle at the time of manufacture.

The new guidelines encourage manufacturers of the portable and aftermarket electronic devices to design products that, when used while driving, reduce the potential for driver distraction. The suggested Driver Mode is described as a ‘simplified user interface’ - which will limit the time a driver’s eyes are off the road.

"NHTSA has long encouraged drivers to put down their phones and other devices, and just drive," said NHTSA Administrator Dr. Mark Rosekind. "With driver distraction one of the factors behind the rise of traffic fatalities, we are committed to working with the industry to ensure that mobile devices are designed to keep drivers’ eyes where they belong — on the road."