Today, distracted driving is a matter of concern for everyone on the road. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), three main types of distractions can affect a driver behind the wheel:
- Visual: Looking away from the road
- Manual: Activities such as grooming and changing radio channels; activities that need you to take your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: Losing focus on driving and thinking about other things
To counter distracted driving-related issues, renowned automakers are striving to integrate technological advances in modern-day vehicles. However, despite all the precautionary measures, auto accidents can still occur. If you get involved in a car accident, our auto accident attorneys in Lafayette, LA are here for help.
Here are some of the top technologies that prevent distracted driving:
>> Phone lock-down apps:
Multiple applications use the GPS of the motorists’ cellphone to block functionalities such as emails, texts, and phone calls, especially when the car is moving faster than a particular speed. Though these apps shut down distracting functionalities, some still allow the driver to make calls.
>> Built-in safety features:
Multiple built-in automobile DVD players are integrated with safety features that disable viewable screens when the vehicle is in motion. Similarly, there are advanced GPS systems that provide audio directions. These GPS units, in fact, prevent drivers from keying in data when the car is in motion.
>> Robotics and artificial intelligence:
Google is taking a revolutionary step and testing cars that drive themselves. Compared to human drivers, robotic drivers never lose focus and their response times are faster than human reflexes. Recently, Google researchers test drove cars for more than 140,000 miles with minimum human intervention. It has been noticed that these technologically advanced cars perform equally well in city traffic. They keep the driver apprised of conditions such as approaching crosswalks and upcoming turns.
>> Crash avoidance systems:
Accident mitigation technology in these advanced cars easily monitors the area in front of vehicles. It can brake automatically when it senses any vehicles, pedestrians, or even animals ahead of it. The crash avoidance systems interfere when the driver is likely to get distracted. Such apps are also helpful when trying to locate a space in a busy parking lot, or when you are busy conversing with passengers in the car.
>> Drowsy driving detection:
Many auto manufacturers offer systems that alert the motorists when they tend to fall asleep behind the wheel. Sensory warnings such as a tap on the brakes, tug on the shoulder belt, and an illuminated icon of a cup-of-coffee help to alert the driver.
>> Hands-free connectivity:
Almost every auto manufacturer offers a Bluetooth connectivity package that helps drivers manage their phones hands-free. Voice commands can be used to control a variety of systems in the vehicle, such as audio systems, mobile systems, navigation systems, climate control, and other electronic systems.
>> Lane-departure alert systems:
In case, you are not paying attention to a road marker, the lane departure warning systems alert you with a warning tone or physical alert system such as steering wheel vibration. More advanced systems guide the vehicle back to the lane.
Distracted driving can be a criminal offense in the US depending on the distracted driving laws prevalent in your state. If a law enforcement officer catches you browsing your phone, they can issue a citation. If you or someone you love is injured in a car crash due to someone else’s distracted driving, reach out to an experienced lawyer.
We understand the fear, anger, and frustration that you may feel after a car collision. Between pain and suffering, and the inability to do everyday activities, an injury can be devastating. We understand that the last thing you would want to do is get into a disagreement with insurance companies.
Our auto accident attorneys in Lafayette, LA, at the Law Offices of L. Clayton Burgess, are here to protect you against the bullying tactics that insurance companies resort to. We offer a free case evaluation, and you will not pay us unless we win the case for you. With us, you don’t have to fight alone. For further queries, call us at (877) 234-7573.
