Don’t text and drive, it’s a simple enough instruction but one people rarely follow. Despite making it illegal practice to use your phone whilst behind the wheel many people still do, sometimes with serious consequences. Figures from the U.S show that in 2008, over 800,000 people were texting, making calls or using a handheld mobile phone while driving, every day. Eighty four percent of mobile phone users in the US also agreed that using a mobile phone while driving does increase the risk of having an accident, so why do it?

The main reason is, of course, communication. We live in a world where people demand immediate interaction, and it seems will sacrifice their lives to do so. Fortunately, a free mobile app has been created which could save thousands of lives every year. DriveSafe.ly is aimed at regular offenders of texting while driving, launched seven weeks ago it has already been downloaded by one million people.

So what does it do? When drivers receive a text or email the app reads the message aloud, keeping drivers eyes on the road. It reads the messages in real time, without any action needed from the user. The latest version features a ‘speed activated’ function, which turns the app on automatically when driving and switches it off when it’s taken out of the vehicle, making it completely hands-free and easy to use.

It’s currently available in the US, but it is only a matter of time before it’s picked up elsewhere. The DriveSafe.ly app has also been nominated for the prestigious 2009 Mashable Open Web award for Best Mobile App.