Is Car Technology Causing More Distractions and Accidents?
(Transcript)
Hi folks. I’m Jim Adler, the tough, smart lawyer. Today we will be discussing recent advances in car technology and how they may be contributing to more distractions and quite possibly more accidents and injuries.
Car technology has evolved from just a simple dashboard with an ignition key and gearshift to a multimedia system that is equipped with Bluetooth capabilities for wireless phone calls, HD radio reception, GPS systems for maps and directions as well as video screens that show what’s behind you while backing up. However, these innovations may not be the best option for everyone.
When using a hands-free phone call, people tend to engage in more secondary tasks. For example, they may start eating while on the phone and this can lead to a driver’s distraction. GPS systems require the driver to take their eyes off the road for extended periods of time which could cause accidents if something happens. The next problem is that when drivers are using these new technologies such as GPS navigation systems and hands-free calling, it may be harder for them to determine where their car is on the road, thereby leading to accidents and serious injuries.
The most recent car technology is collision avoidance systems which will help keep you from getting into an accident by slowing down or stopping your vehicle if there is danger in front of it. However, for some, this technology is so foreign to any options our cars have had in the past, that it can also be very alarming to have your car start to pull you to the center or slow you down independent of your ability to control that process.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives in 2019. These accidents tend to be associated with rear-end crashes which commonly lead to whiplash, head injuries, spinal injuries, and facial lacerations. AAA and the CDC have issued similar reports regarding the danger of being distracted by new car technology. If you are injured in a car wreck and, you suspect the other driver was inattentive due to the use of new car technology while driving, we can help. These cases tend to be complex, and you want to make sure that you choose a personal injury attorney that has handled these cases and fully understands the complex process of establishing liability.
If you have questions about this information or would like to discuss your case, you can get in touch with Jim Adler & Associates through the contact form at jimadler.com or by giving us a call at 1-800-567-7575.