On any road at any given time, there’s almost certainly a distracted driver. Distracted driving is so prevalent that you are likely to see a person looking at their phone any time you drive down the road. It is a serious problem that affects the health and safety of every driver and passenger.
You are well aware of the danger of distracted driving, and you are probably also aware that people still engage in this behavior despite safety warnings and even the threat of fines and penalties. The temptation to use a phone is too much for some people, and others believe they can safely multitask behind the wheel. But new technology options may actually help in the battle against distraction and make the roads safer for everyone.
The features that could save lives
Phone manufacturers are aware that phone-related distractions are one of the leading causes of accidents in Louisiana and throughout the United States. To help combat the problem, many phones now have “do not disturb” features that can disengage texting. There are also apps that can mute texting while a car is in motion or alert parents if their teen driver is using a phone while driving.
Many newer vehicles also have various features that can go a long way toward saving lives. Some of the features include:
- Lane departure warning systems that can alert a driver if the vehicle is swerving or drifting between lanes.
- Automatic braking systems that can engage the brakes and stop the vehicle if the driver fails to brake in enough time to avoid a collision.
- Forward-collision warning systems that can tell a driver if there is a possible collision ahead by using tactile, visual or audible warnings.
Hopefully, these systems and others can help prevent future distracted driving accidents. However, each driver is still responsible for the choices he or she makes behind the wheel. If a person is distracted by their phone and causes an accident, the victim may hold the at-fault driver legally responsible for any resulting injuries or damage.
If you are the victim of a distracted driving accident, you know firsthand how dangerous this behavior is. You do not have to suffer alone. A personal injury attorney can explain your options for obtaining compensation for your financial losses and getting the support you need to recover and move forward.
