Middlebury College student’s app rewards drivers for not using their phone
There is a new Vermont-made tool to help keep drivers even safer behind the wheel. Green Mountain Power is proud to be the first company to sign up to use a new safety app called JoyRyde. The app works by tracking the user’s distance and length of time driving without phone distractions such as texting, talking on their cell phone, even hands-free or using apps, with the exception of navigation. The app collects data on length of time and miles driven and drivers are awarded credits that can be redeemed for rewards, discounts, coupons or a charitable donation at a wide range of local businesses and organizations.
“Safety is the essential component of the work we do every day as we provide reliable, cost-effective and clean power to customers,” said GMP CEO and President Mary Powell. “As soon as we heard about JoyRyde’s service, we knew it was something that fit with our culture of safety, accountability and fun. As Vermont’s energy company of the future, we are committed to bringing the latest innovations to help Vermonters while supporting local entrepreneurs and startup companies like JoyRyde.”
Green Mountain Power employees will download the app and begin using it this week. The company says it will track scores and encourage employees to redeem the rewards they earn or make a contribution to a local charity of their choosing. In addition, GMP will provide additional incentives, including an extra vacation day for the employee with the top safety score.
Terry Goguen is a Middlebury College senior who developed the app. He wanted to design something that would reward people for being safe behind the wheel and create positive reinforcement to tackle the serious issue of distracted driving.
“We are so excited to have Green Mountain Power join as the first company customer to use our app and incorporate it into their safety and wellness program,” said Goguen. “I am passionate about promoting safe driving in a way that is fun and our new app shows that it does pay to drive safely. We hope more companies, especially those with large vehicle fleets and employees who commute by car, will join and help us make our roads safer.”
To learn more about JoyRyde, visit www.joyryde.co.
