Ohio auto accident attorney explains study, dangers facing drivers
Today's roadways are filled with distracted drivers. Factors ranging from eating to texting can triple a driver's risk of a car accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving resulted in a total of 391,000 injuries and 3,477 deaths in 2015. Even more shocking - an average of 660,000 drivers use cellphones while driving during daylight hours.
Cellphones and handheld devices grab most of the attention when it comes to distracted driving. In fact, numerous campaigns target drivers who engage in texting. In particular, a campaign by the Ad Council targets drivers ages 16 to 34 with their catchy slogan, "Stop the texts, stop the wrecks."
But are handheld devices the only cause of distracted driving car accidents? Or are there other reasons why distracted driving accidents occur?
Technology Built into Modern Automobiles
In recent years, manufacturers have installed a slew of navigation and entertainment systems in many new vehicles. Many cars are now filled with technology, all aimed at making driving easier and more convenient. But do these built-in devices come with a risk? The answer may be yes, one study finds.
AAA recently conducted a study weighing the pros and cons of built-in technological devices in cars, according to a recent Market Watch article. The study reviewed the built-in devices of 30 vehicles put on the market in 2017. These devices included Satellite Navigation (SatNav), MP3 players and built-in messaging devices.
As part of the study, participants were then asked to utilize the devices during a simulated driving test. The study concluded that participants took their attention off the road for an average of 24 seconds. Additionally, navigation devices took an average of 40 seconds to program, a task that drivers often engage in while on the road.
Laws Not Tough Enough
The laws encompassing the use of handheld or built-in devices while driving need to be stronger. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, only 15 states have banned the use of cellphones while driving. A total of 47 states have banned texting while driving. The Association of Advancement of Automotive Medicine reports that there are no current laws or regulations encompassing built-in automobile devices.
People need to always drive responsibly and remain aware of everything around them, even if they're using built-in devices. Ideally, built-in devices should only be used while the vehicle is stopped, and handheld devices should be turned off.
But some drivers don't behave responsibly. They fail to pay attention to everything around them and cause serious accidents. If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident caused by negligent driving, take action. Contact an experienced Ohio car accident lawyer and get the compensation you rightfully deserve.