We all know how dangerous
driving distracted can be, yet many of us still do it. Some people, however,
believe that if they are using hands-free technology then they are no longer at
risk. It’s understandable to think this way because they are not actually
holding a cellphone anymore, and don’t have to be looking at a screen. However,
a recent study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has shown that
hands-free technology is still a distraction. The study says that distraction
can linger up to 27 seconds after the driver has finished making a call, tuning
the radio, or composing a text via voice commands, which is enough time for a
driver to mistakenly drive past a stop sign or hit a car that was braking in front
of them.
The study was performed by
researchers at the University of Utah, who looked at the use of smartphones and
hands-free car systems while driving. One of the researchers explained that
when using hands-free technology, you are still engaged in voice-based
interaction, which is still a form of distraction.
“When you hang up, it takes
time for that to clear, time for you to re-establish the awareness of the
driving environment,” said David Strayer, a professor at the University of Utah
who co-authored the study.
While it is helpful that
these hands-free systems allow for drivers to keep both hands on the wheel and
their eyes on the road, two things that are critical for driving safely, there
is no denying that distraction still plays some form of role. Even having a
passenger riding with you is a distraction if you’re going to be conversing
with them as you’re driving.
So while using hands-free
technology to communicate on the phone is safer than actually holding your
phone, it is still not 100% safe. Driving is a risk no matter what, but
distractions only make the risk higher. Therefore, your safest bet is to be
free from all distractions, even hands-free technology. It’s important to have
all your mental attention, not just your hands, dedicated to the road when
driving.
If
you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor,
Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield,
Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City
Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys
know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your
feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the
compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow
Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join
the conversation by using #MCAA.
