Hands-Free Isn’t Risk-Free

by Staff Blogger | May 8th, 2019

We have more technology in our cars than ever before, including safety features like backup cameras, blind spot detectors, and lane departure warning systems. In-vehicle infotainment systems include touchscreen menus, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation systems. While those features are meant to create a more luxurious driving experience and decrease driver distractions, they often do the opposite—particularly when it comes to texting and making phone calls. Manually texting while driving is especially dangerous because it involves the three types of driver distraction: visual, manual, and cognitive. Although using voice controls or voice-to-text features can reduce manual distractions, they don’t eliminate the risks of using a cell phone behind the wheel.

The Experts Agree—You Can’t Safely Multitask While Driving

According to the National Safety Council, talking on the phone or using a voice-to-text feature while driving reduces the brain’s ability to process moving images by one third. That means that hands-free phone use isn’t much safer than using a hand-held phone or texting manually. AAA Foundation President and CEO Peter Kissinger explains: “Increased mental workload and cognitive distractions can lead to a type of tunnel vision or inattention blindness where motorists don’t see potential hazards right in front of them.” Next time you think about using voice controls to text or make a phone call while driving, consider the risks. While your hands might be free, your mind will be distracted and focused less on the road ahead.

California Car Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an accident because another driver was distracted or negligent, the California car accident attorneys at Berg Injury Lawyers want to speak with you. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve, and if you don’t win, you pay nothing. Contact us now for a free case review.