A new device will be launched in the United States in 2016 to help prevent the use of a mobile phone while driving.

SMARTwheel is a snap-on steering wheel cover that detects when a driver’s hands are off the wheel – and even if their hands are too close together, which could suggest a phone is being held while driving.

As well as triggering a reminder to grip the wheel correctly, the SMARTwheel can log activity via Bluetooth and an app. This means the device could be used by parents to monitor their teens’ driving.