Being distracted at the wheel by a mobile phone is one of the biggest contributors to road accidents in the UK. Death and injury to both drivers and other road users have been caused by such behaviour on many occasions.

How can technology help to reduce or eradicate the risk of being distracted by electronic devices whilst driving?

Ideally of course, drivers would have enough will power to switch their devices off for the duration of their journey, but for many, the temptation to find out what person is behind that latest bleep or ring is too much to bear!

Manufacturers are starting to tackle the issue with special features that block incoming calls and messages. One of these is Ford with its Do Not Disturb button. But such features are not yet widespread on all cars.

What about Apps?

As the famous Apple slogan goes, 'there's an app for that.' Here are three of the best.

tXtBlocker

This app gauges when a person's device is moving at 'car speed' (using GPS) and automatically sends a 'Driving' message in response to messages or calls. Other features include being able to block calls and messages when the user is in specific locations, or at particular times of the day. For Android and Blackberry. Emergency calls permitted.

iZUP

In common with tXtBlocker, iZUP ascertains when a device is moving at a speed akin to car travel and then blocks all incoming/outgoing calls, messages and emails. Emergency calls however will go through.

Textecution

If your device goes faster than 10mph, Textecution will cut out incoming and outgoing calls and messages. As soon as the device drops below that speed, the device will operate normally again. Android only.

Vehicle recovery calls not affected

The fact that these apps automatically stop working when a vehicle is stationary makes them very useable indeed. So crucially, if you've broken down by the side of the road, these mobile apps won't stop you from calling your vehicle breakdown provider and getting the help you need.