Tech Advances Lead Reduction Distracted Driving Accidents NC

Advances In Fighting Distracted Driving

New technology may help warn drivers when they spend too much time with their eyes off the road, potentially reducing car accidents.

Auto manufacturers are catching the attention of customers with powerful ads depicting cars that can automatically avoid tragic car accidents. In some cases, this advertisement involves a vehicle engaging the brakes before the driver is aware of a potential crash, in others the car alerts the driver that he or she is beginning to veer into another lane of traffic. These are just a few of the current safety features now available in vehicles on the market, and more advances are coming.

A recent article by CNBC reports that General Motors purchased 500,000 devices designed to monitor a driver’s line of site. If the driver’s head is pointed down or in a direction that does not allow the driver to properly view the road, an alert will be issued. This device is designed to help reduce the risk of distracted driving accidents. Drivers who look down to send texts or turn towards the back of the vehicle to see what their children are doing would likely trigger an alert.

Even more devices will likely be available in the near future. The same company supplying the devices to GM is also investing in developing a device that can tell if a driver has had too much to drink.

Distracted Driving And Car Crashes

Driving while distracted can contribute to motor vehicle accidents. Distractions can range from use of smartphones to post a photo on Instagram to eating breakfast while driving to work.

It is important to note that many of these practices are not just dangerous but also illegal in North Carolina. Texting while driving, for example, is illegal in the state. The Governors Highway Safety Association notes that the law is a primary offense. This means an officer can pull a driver over simply for texting, no other violations are required to justify the stop.

It is also illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to use a cellphone while driving.

What To Do If Injured In A Car Crash

Unfortunately, even with these new pieces of technology and laws working to increase the safety of the state’s roadways accidents happen. In many cases, those who are injured in a distracted driving accident are eligible to receive compensation. This could help cover the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation and other bills associated with the crash. As a result, those who are injured are wise to seek the counsel of an experienced North Carolina car accident lawyer to discuss their case and help better ensure they receive the remedies they are entitled to.

Keywords: distracted driving car accident