Is More Tech the Answer to Distracted Driving

Every year more than 3,000 people are killed by distracted driving. Distracted driving has become an epidemic with technology such as cell phones and in-vehicle infotainment systems as major factors. Adding more technology into the driving mix sounds like a recipe for disaster. But could more technology actually be the answer to distracted driving?

Driver Assistance Technology

While self-driving cars are not yet an everyday reality, driver assistance technology can help prevent crashes caused by distracted drivers. If a distracted driver isn’t going to prevent an accident from happening, then maybe the car itself can. Some safety features include:

  • Forward Collision Warning—provides a visual, audible, or tactile alert to warn a driver of an impending collision.
  • Auto Emergency Braking—this system engages the brakes to avoid a potential collision if a driver does not react in time.
  • Lane Departure Warning—this system provides a tactile or visual warning when a vehicle crosses lane markers without the turn signal being engaged.
  • Lane Keeping Assist—provides some steering or braking to correct a situation where a vehicle is drifting out of its lane.

While studies have shown that these technologies can reduce the number of collisions, the reality is they shouldn’t be used as an excuse for distracted driving.

Cell Phone Blocking Technology

Cell phone use is the most common factor in distracted driving accidents. While there are laws in place to prevent texting while driving, most drivers still engage in the practice even though they are aware of the crash risk. Cell phone blocking technology can be used to prevent phones from being used while driving.  This technology usually comes in the form of a smartphone app that can be installed on the phone. The most basic apps prevent a phone from receiving calls or texts while the app is engaged. Other apps can disable the phone completely. The problem with cell phone blocking technology is that it is the responsibility of the driver to engage the app. The ability to disable an app at any time is something that drivers must fight the urge to do.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident with a distracted driver, you should consult with an experienced New York car accident attorney. At Bonina & Bonina P.C., we have over 50 years of experience helping car accident victims. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.