The Effect of Modern Technology on Driver Distraction
AAA’s Center for Driving Safety and Technology recently teamed up with University of Utah researchers to examine the dashboards of 30 modern vehicles so as to determine how frequently these dashboard displays took a driver’s vision of the road and how much of a driver’s cognitive function had to be allocated to operating the display. The shocking results revealed that this technology, designed to provide modern conveniences, may be a major distraction for drivers.
Distractions – A Primary Cause of Modern Car Accident Injuries
Music itself doesn’t seem to be a major distraction for drivers. In fact, many auto manufacturers have begun integrating radio controls into the steering wheel so that drivers never have to take their eyes off the road to hear their favorite tunes. Unfortunately, the rest of the functions of the dashboard display continue to grow and now include complicated menus for control of the thermostat, GPS navigation, and other interactive components.
Fighting to Stay Focused on the Road
Being able to pair your smartphone with your car is great until the first time it doesn’t work and you find yourself fiddling with the dashboard trying to fix it while driving. Text message support may keep people from picking up the smartphone while driving, but sometimes speaking a message and struggling with the voice commands can be just as much of a distraction. This is a case where instead of encouraging a person to wait until they arrive at their destination, new technology just finds a different way to distract the driver. The fact is that maintaining focus on the road and off of technology is the best way to avoid an accident.
If You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident
If you are the victim of an injury due to a distracted driver, you need to get the right medical treatment, and you deserve to be compensated for those costs and other losses that may occur as a result of the injury. Petrov Law Firm has experienced and compassionate personal injury lawyers who can help you to recover your losses. To learn more, call 619-344-0360 today.
