Distracted driving has become one of the biggest threats to driver safety on our nation’s roadways. Each day, eight people die in crashes involving a distracted driver while approximately 1,161 people are injured.
One of the most common reasons drivers get distracted is because of electronic devices like smartphones. That is why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently proposed a set of voluntary guidelines to help reduce the potential for drivers to get distracted by aftermarket electronic devices.
The guidelines encourage manufacturers of these devices to add features to preserve functionality while not requiring drivers to take their eyes off the road.
Features could include the ability to link the device to vehicle infotainment systems or a simplified user interface, or driver mode. Features like these allow drivers to continue using their devices in safer, more convenient ways.
The NHTSA is committed to working with manufacturers to develop devices and features to keep drivers focused on driving, says NHTSA administrator Dr. Mark Rosekind.
Examples of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving occurs when your eyes, hands or mind are engaged in another activity besides driving. Talking on the phone, eating and texting are common examples of activities that take drivers’ eyes off the road.
Texting and driving are particularly dangerous because it involves your eyes, hands and your mind. Also, if you read a text while traveling at 55 miles per hour, you will have traveled the length of a football field while your eyes were not on the road.
If you have suffered injuries or a lost a loved one in a crash involving a distracted driver, you may have legal options. Contact our Baton Rouge car accident lawyers to find out if you are entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, and other damages.
Contact an injury lawyer today by calling (800) 374-8422.
