Hands-Free Technology Phones and Cars Still Distracting Us
A recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety points out that we remain distracted long after we cease texting.
According to the study, potentially unsafe distractions may persist in our minds for roughly 27 seconds after dialing, voice command texting, calling, or changing music.
These studies highlight the use of phones and vehicle information systems (hands-free) built into automobiles. Even with voice command phones, new research shows that our driving is affected long after we’ve completed the task that distracted us in the first place. The same goes for hands-free technology utilized in new automobiles. It is equally distracting.
These types of distractions often manifest into a recipe for disaster. Many motorists miss a stop sign and fail to see a pedestrian or other vehicle when they go from attentive driving to monkeying with their device and resuming their attention to the road.
How is California Dealing with the Dangers of Distracted Driving?
- In 2009, California banned driving while writing, reading, or sending a text message. It is illegal in the State of California.
- In April of each year, law enforcement officers take part in National Distracted Driving Awareness Month
- Also, in April, Teen Safe Driving Week impacted teen Drivers because, in 2009, 3,242 teenagers between 15 and 19 lost their lives in auto accidents. (2009: Centers for Disease Control)
- Law Enforcement performs crackdowns, but the problem still exists
- The Office of Traffic Safety publishes public service announcements called “Silence the Distraction.”
- Unfortunately, many times, it takes a tragic event before one changes their mind about texting while driving.
How is Elk Grove Dealing with Distracted Drivers?
- Elk Grove Police Department has random crackdowns on distracted drivers. The last one was on July 14, 2015.
- For teen drivers, the Elk Grove Police Department and Sacramento District Attorney’s Office were present before the Impact. A very poignant and gripping production of the dangers of distracted and/or impaired driving. This production also tells the story from the vantage point of being in the car as a passenger with a distracted/impaired driver.
Distracted Driving is Like Driving Blind
Follow this link to see a link to our website, including the video, Distracted Driving is Like Driving Blind, by Edward A Smith.
Elk Grove Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, an Elk Grove Personal Injury Lawyer. I have been handling auto accident cases involving victims of distracted drivers in Elk Grove for a very long time. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed by the negligent actions of another, please call me at (916) 694-0002 for free, friendly advice. If you are outside the Elk Grove/Sacramento area, you can call us at (800) 404-5400.
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