Florida readers know that distracted driving is a major problem. It is one of the leading causes of car accidents, and it is one of the biggest threats to the safety of motorists. If you suffered injuries in a car accident, chances are that distraction played a role in some capacity. However, distraction goes beyond texting and cellphones.
A study recently released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that some of the technology that now comes standard in many vehicles could pose a significant threat to motorist safety. Some of the biggest risk factors come from built-in navigation systems, touch screen radios, and DVD players. No matter the type, distracted driving is always dangerous and always preventable.
What’s the big deal about in-car features?
It seems that every year cars come with more technology features than the year before. The newer the vehicle, the more likely it is to come with stuff that can distract drivers. Simply inputting an address in a GPS system can be as dangerous as reading or sending a text while operating a vehicle. This study from AAA learned the following about drivers and in-car technology features:
- Men are more prone to distraction by the technology features in their vehicles than women.
- Drivers took their eyes off the road for an average of 40 seconds or longer when manipulating dashboard features, such as the GPS.
- Even at slow speeds, these features can cause drivers to travel significant distances without looking up.
- Most drivers are more distracted than they realize or admit to.
Even when using features that come as part of the vehicle, drivers bear the responsibility of driving safely and refraining from allowing distraction to affect their driving. No matter the type of distraction that played a role in your accident, you have the right to hold a distracted driver accountable for his or her actions that caused you harm.
Fighting back against distraction
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and confused during the aftermath of an accident. You may not know where to start, but seeking a complete evaluation of your case could be beneficial. It is possible to fight back against distracted driving, but it can help your case to take quick action.
You should not have to suffer from the negligent or reckless actions of another person. If a distracted driver caused you harm, you may have a rightful claim to financial damages and compensation for your pain and suffering.