The city of Walnut Creek in California, US, has introduced a new traffic technology application, which has been designed to help distracted drivers.

The technology will use a free app called EnLighten, which is available for Android and iPhone users and allows all 100 traffic signals in the city to ‘talk’ to smartphones.

Developed by Connected Signals, EnLighten will notify drivers through an audio alert to refocus their attention on driving just before a red traffic light changes to green.

"It is a great first step in opening our roadways to technology that will make our streets safer in the future."

The functionality requires no driver involvement and conforms to local laws with regard to cell phone use while driving.

The technology is expected to help smooth traffic, while encouraging drivers to be attentive at busy intersections.

Walnut Creek mayor Bob Simmons said: "It is a great first step in opening our roadways to technology that will make our streets safer in the future."

Connected Signals and the City of Walnut Creek were supported by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA), and the implementation was possible with funding from Metropolitan Transportation Commission.

CCTA Intelligent Transportation Systems programme manager Jack Hall said: "The Contra Costa Transportation Authority is committed to supporting transportation innovation that will enhance safety.

"The launch of EnLighten in Walnut Creek represents the first step in developing vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication in Contra Costa, and will accelerate the next generation of transportation infrastructure, making the future of driving safer in our community and beyond."

City officials initially plan to deploy the technology to improve traffic flow in Walnut Creek and later on evaluate the way to implement Intelligent Transportation Systems for motorists.