Is New Technology Making Distracted Driving Worse?
In today’s technology-obsessed world, it’s hardly shocking that distracted driving has become a growing epidemic. With smartphones, smartwatches, and even smart cars all vying for our attention, it’s getting harder and harder to keep our eyes on the road and our hands on the wheel. But just how big of an impact is technology really having on our driving habits?
The short answer to the question, “Is technology making distracted driving worse?” is a resounding yes. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless to stop it, and some technology can actually help drivers. By being mindful of our actions, utilizing safety features and apps, and demanding more from car manufacturers, we can all do our part to create safer roads for everyone. In the unfortunate event of a car accident, having the support of a dedicated team of car accident lawyers in San Bernardino can make all the difference in navigating the complexities of legal proceedings and seeking rightful compensation.
Distracted Driving and Technology
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2020 alone, distracted driving claimed a staggering 3,142 lives. Research shows that when you text and drive, your chances of being involved in a crash skyrocket by an astonishing 23 times. Even seemingly harmless actions like fiddling with your GPS or scrolling through your playlist can dramatically increase your risk of an accident.
Here are some of the most common technological advancements that make distracted driving worse:
- Smartphones: With their endless array of apps, games, and social media platforms, smartphones are arguably the biggest culprit for distracted driving. The constant notifications and temptation to stay connected can easily draw a driver’s attention away from the road.
- Smartwatches: These wearable devices bring many of the same distractions as smartphones to your wrist. Incoming calls, texts, and app notifications can all distract a driver from the task at hand.
- Infotainment systems: The increasingly complex and feature-rich infotainment systems found in many modern vehicles can be a significant source of distraction. From navigating menus to adjusting settings, these systems often require a driver’s visual, manual, and cognitive attention.
- Built-in GPS navigation: While incredibly useful for getting from point A to point B, built-in GPS systems can also be a dangerous distraction. Inputting addresses, following turn-by-turn directions, and even glancing at the map display can all take a driver’s eyes off the road.
- In-vehicle Wi-Fi: Some newer vehicles now have built-in Wi-Fi hotspots, allowing passengers to connect their devices to the internet. While this can be a great convenience, it can also create additional distractions for the driver, especially if they’re tempted to use the connection themselves.
- Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist: While these advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are designed to enhance safety, they can also lead to driver complacency. Some drivers may become overly reliant on these features, leading to a false sense of security and a diminished focus on the road.
Studies have shown that glancing away from the road for just two seconds can double your crash risk. While voice commands and hands-free options can help mitigate some of the risks, they’re not a foolproof solution. Even if your hands are on the wheel, your mind may still be preoccupied with the task at hand, pulling your focus away from the road ahead. The key is to use these features sparingly and only when necessary.
How Can We Stay Safe and Avoid Distracted Driving?
So, what can we do to combat this growing problem? All drivers need to recognize that no text, email, or phone call is worth risking lives. Before you get behind the wheel, take a moment to silence your notifications and stash your phone out of reach. If you must use your device, pull over to a safe spot first.
But the responsibility doesn’t just fall on individual drivers. Car manufacturers also have a crucial role to play in creating safer, less distracting vehicles. Instead of making bigger and brighter touch screens, they should focus on developing technologies that enhance safety. Features like blind-spot detection, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking can go a long way in preventing accidents caused by distracted driving. In the event of a car accident, seeking legal counsel from a team of car accident attorneys in San Bernardino can provide invaluable support in navigating the legal complexities and securing rightful compensation.
It’s up to all of us to make responsible choices when we’re behind the wheel. That means keeping our eyes on the road, our hands on the wheel, and our minds focused on the task.
Can Technology Help Reduce Distracted Driving?
It is important to note that not all technology is bad, and some can actually help us when driving. There are now countless apps available that can help curb our distracted driving habits. Some, like LifeSaver and Drive Safe, block incoming calls and texts while you’re driving. Others, like DriveSafe.ly, will read your messages aloud so you can keep your eyes on the road. By taking advantage of these tools, we can help mitigate the risks associated with distracted driving.
So the next time you find yourself reaching for your phone while behind the wheel, remember: No text, email, or phone call is worth risking your life or the lives of others. Put the phone down, keep your eyes on the road, and let’s work together to put the brakes on distracted driving once and for all.
Contact Our San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver in Southern California, the team of experienced San Bernardino car accident lawyers at William D. Shapiro Law, Inc. is here to help. With a proven track record of success and a deep commitment to client satisfaction, our law firm’s San Bernadino car accident attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Don’t let a distracted driver’s negligence go unchallenged. Contact William D. Shapiro Law, Inc. today or complete our confidential contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Remember, you don’t have to face this difficult time alone—trust the dedicated professionals at William D. Shapiro Law, Inc., to help you on the road to recovery.
William Shapiro has handled catastrophic injury/wrongful death actions for over 4 decades obtaining numerous seven and eight-figure verdicts and settlements. Honors include: 2022, 2016 and 2013 OCTLA “Top Gun” TLY; 2022 CAOC TLY Finalist; 2018 “Lifetime Achievement Award” Western State College of Law, 2021 & 2017 Best Lawyers, Lawyer of the Year; 2016 WSBCBA “TLY”; 2015 CAL-ABOTA “TLY”; 2014 “TLY” Consumer Attorneys of CAOIE; 2011 “Hall of Fame,” Western State College of Law; Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers; International Academy of Trial Lawyers; International Society of Barristers; Diplomat, American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA); National Board of Trial Advocacy; specialist in Trial Advocacy, State Bar of California; “Best Lawyers in America” and “Tier 1 Best Law Firms” U.S. News; AV Preeminent, Martindale-Hubbell; SuperLawyers; Past President of: San Bernardino/Riverside chapter ABOTA; San Bernardino County Bar Association; Consumer Attorneys of Inland Empire; The Joseph. B. Campbell American Inn of Court; Consumer Attorneys of California; IE ; National Sec of ABOTA, Adjunct professor, Western State College of Law. Learn more here.