How Distractions Can Affect Driving

2/10/2011

In January of 2004 Holly Jo Smeckert, nanny, was driving a child to dance class. Judy Teaters, at the same time, was taking her 12 year old son, Joe, to be tutored. Judy ran a red light and hit the Teater’s SUV. Joe was killed. Judy had been talking on her cell phone.

Eleven percent of drivers talk on their cell phones at any moment of any day.

There is an entertainment market that focuses on drivers while they are driving their cars.

Smart phones and computer operating systems are the main sources of distraction for the drivers.

The car is becoming a virtual office for many drivers.

Electronic diversions have expanded far beyond talking and texting, to the many apps available on smart phones and computer operating systems.

This practice is common with younger, high risk drivers.

Some cars offer voice recognition phones built into the car. This may be a solution but it is still in the developmental stages.

The National Safety Council reports that hands-free cell phones are not safer than regular cell phones.

In 2011 $105 million was spent on new apps for cars by 7 million new car buyers. In 2015 it is expected that to be 26.6 million new car buyers will spend $438 on apps for their cars. This could exceed $680 million in 2015 according to  a Giga OM Pro study. Many authorities say the car is the next electronic frontier.

The need for federal legislation is underscored.

If you need a car accident lawyer call aa-accidentattorneys.com at 800-260-2577

Source: The Gilroy Dispatch