Technological innovations can enrich our lives. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) can provide anything from a speedometer reading and driving directions to which song is playing on the radio. Some systems, like heads-up displays (HUDs), display the information directly on the windshield. Automatic braking, positioning technology and adaptive cruise control are also popular features.
Ideally, this kind of technology helps drivers navigate and drive safely, without having to look away from the road. However, critics suggest that HUDs and other ADAS may contribute to the distracted driving problem.
If you suspect an ADAS played a part in your distracted driving accident, the Law Offices of Tim Misny can help. Read on to discover how we can assist with your claim.
Distracting technology
When cars are fitted with assistive technology, drivers are more likely to be distracted. That includes fiddling with the radio, smoking, eating or drinking and even staring at pedestrians. Instead of keeping their eyes on the road, the technology has the opposite effect.
HUDs, for example, offer an overwhelming amount of information, including:
- Traditional dashboard indicators
- Distance from other cars and objects
- GPS driving directions
- Audio information
- Bluetooth calls and text information
- Exterior temperature
A study by the AAA Foundation and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that drivers with assistive technology were “associated with a 50 percent increase in the odds of engaging in any form of secondary task and an 80 percent increase in the odds of engaging in visual and/or manual secondary tasks, compared with when the same drivers who were not using the automated system. Drivers using both systems simultaneously also took more frequent and longer glances at non-driving-related tasks and spent less time with their eyes on driving-related tasks.”
That’s a disturbing revelation, especially since these systems are so prevalent in modern vehicles. However, it may be helpful when litigating a car accident claim.
Did ADAS play a role in your collision?
Distracted driving causes thousands of fatalities nationwide, each year. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to prove distracted driving. While phone records can prove whether a defendant was talking on the phone or texting at the time of the accident, proving ADAS contributed to an accident can be tough.
The Law Offices of Tim Misny is up to the challenge. When you need an experienced personal injury attorney on your side, call us for a consultation. We’ll review the evidence, listen to your suspicions and fight to help you recover compensation.
Talk to an Ohio personal injury lawyer today
Were you hit by a distracted driver? I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away. Whether or not we can prove an ADAS contributed to your accident, I’ll work hard to get the compensation you deserve.
