Curb the car dashboard technology, government asks

New Haven, Conn. (WTNH/AP) - Today's cars have features all designed to enhance the driving experience, but they could also be making it harder for drivers to focus on the road.

If the federal government had it their way, the dashboard on new cars will no longer be decked out. In fact, drivers may as well get used to throwing GPSs and cell phone in the back seat.

It's pretty difficult for many drivers to turn away from all this technology and focus directly on the road.

In 2010 3,000 people died because of accidents blamed on distracted driving.

"The phones and people that should know better," said Veronica Brantley. "They got the phones, they're texting, looking up every now and then."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is proposing voluntary guidelines for manufacturers, including a recommendation that they design dashboards that automatically disable distracting devices unless the vehicle is stopped and the transmission is in park.

A 2012 Mercedes Benz with an arcade-like dashboard won't allow the user to type addresses in the GPS if the car is moving.

So, how do people that drive for a living feel about many more limitations?

"It would [be difficult] but, you would get used to it," said Mark Richardson. "I don't do it now because it's hard to punch in the GPS or answer the phone when you're driving down 95."

Other drivers were surprised, but not against the restrictions.

"It is a good idea, but at the same time it is a bit much," said Takisha Kinchen.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers say they'll consider the guidelines.  They want drivers to still be able to use technology, but be safe on the roads. . A spokeswoman says the industry has had voluntary guidelines for 10 years.

Read more about the proposal