One of the improvements in vehicles is the availability of in-vehicle technology. From Toyota’s Entune system to Apple CarPlay, in-vehicle technology helps drivers check the weather, find the radio station, make telephone calls, find a restaurant, operate a navigating system, or send text messages without taking their eyes off the road or their hands off the steering wheel. However, at least one study found infotainment systems in vehicles to be a potentially dangerous distraction for drivers.
Are Infotainment Systems in Vehicles a Dangerous Distraction for Drivers?
According to research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, touch screen and voice-based infotainment systems in vehicles caused mental and physical for the drivers. In some cases, tasks could cause distractions for more than 40 seconds. Research shows that removing your eyes from the road for just two seconds doubles the risk for a crash. Of the 30 vehicles used for the study, 23 vehicles had systems that resulted in high to very high levels of cognitive and visual demands for the driver.
Distracted Driving Accidents in America
Distracted driving continues to be a problem throughout the United States. During 2016, distracted driving accidents resulted in 3,450 deaths and approximately 391,000 injuries. Even though national, state, and local agencies work to get the word out that distracted driving is dangerous, it is estimated that about 481,000 drivers use cell phones while driving each day. Teens were the largest age group for distracted driving fatalities; however, adults make the mistake of thinking they can drive while distracted safely.
How can you avoid a distracted driving accident? Put down the cell phone and avoid other forms of distraction while driving. Common distractions that contribute to car accidents include:
- Texting and talking on cell phones, including hands-free cell phones
- Eating and drinking
- Programming or using navigation systems
- Adjusting vehicle controls
- Grooming and removing clothing/shoes
- Taking care of passengers, including children
- Paying attention to things on the side of the road
- Daydreaming
- Reading and watching/making videos or pictures
- Using social media
In-vehicle technology is not going to go away. If there is any change in in-vehicle technology, it is likely to increase. As people continue to purchase newer vehicles, the number of vehicles on the road with infotainment systems will increase. Drivers must take steps now to avoid distractions while driving.
Filing a Claim for a Distracted Driving Accident
It can be difficult to prove that a driver was distracted at the time of a crash, but it is possible. If you believe another driver caused your accident because he or she was distracted, a New Orleans car accident attorney can help you investigate the crash. Our New Orleans car accident lawyers investigate accidents to determine the cause of the crash and identify the parties liable for your damages. It is crucial that we identify the at-fault parties so that you can recover compensation for your injuries and damages.
Contact Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm by calling (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request a free consultation with a New Orleans accident attorney. Do not accept a settlement offer without discussing your case with an experienced injury lawyer in New Orleans. The insurance company may be undervaluing your claim. We want to help you get the maximum compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.