Ford has announced an upcoming addition to their Sync voice-activated technology that will enable parents to prevent their young drivers from receiving text messages or phone calls using the system.

In the ever-expanding world of Sync, the new Do Not Disturb feature will be added to the existing MyKey technology, which allows parents to program a child’s key to limit top speed, prevent operation without safety belts being fastened, and limit other functions in the interest of safety.

When activated, callers will be diverted to voice mail and text messages will be saved for later viewing. Drivers will still be able to make voice-activated outgoing calls using their Bluetooth-enabled smart phone paired with Sync.

Scheduled to make its debut on the 2012 Explorer early next year, a Ford representative said Do Not Disturb will then roll out on other models. It will offered at no extra charge.

Car crashes remain the leading cause of teen deaths, and driver distraction has played a role in 16 percent of all crashes involving drivers under the age of 20. While Do Not Disturb will not prevent a teen driver from simply picking up the phone and making a call or texting outside the Sync system, the technology is a step in the right direction and has the potential to reduce driver distraction when used properly.

For more on distracted driving and teen safety, see our guide.