Modern vehicles might appear safer than ever, but there’s an inherent danger lurking within every dashboard: the “infotainment” system. From interactive maps and nested menus to touch screen settings and illuminated dials, the system is a veritable treasure trove of cognitive overload, even for the most conscientious motorists.

According to the Los Angeles Times, both smartphone makers and automobile manufacturers have been ignoring the writing on the wall for years in regard to distracted driving. Despite the fact that the cars, trucks, and SUVs coming off the assembly line today are equipped with incredibly advanced safety features like blind spot detection and lane-departure warning, traffic fatalities are on the rise.

In 2012, approximately 33,000 people died in motor-vehicle collisions. In 2021, this figure was closer to 43,000.

Although the number of fatalities associated with distracted driving has remained steady over the last decade (between 3,000 and 4,000 annually), there is reason to believe these figures are not entirely accurate. After all, they rely on eyewitness accounts and/or motorists admitting that their attention was elsewhere.

Consequently, it’s virtually impossible to get a clear idea of just how many deaths could be prevented if everyone paid attention while behind the wheel. Considering fatalities in general are on the rise, though, it’s reasonable to assume those caused by distracted driving are, too.

Experts have proposed a number of theories on why more fatal collisions have been occurring in recent years. While there are undoubtedly several variables at play, safety specialists can agree that distracted driving is a major factor, and “infotainment” systems appear to be a leading culprit.

There are dozens of distractions vying for every driver’s attention, but mobile devices and their handsfree console counterparts appear to be two of the most dangerous. When the Los Angeles Times asked five of the biggest U.S. automakers what they’re doing to mitigate distracted driving, they all declined to speak on the subject. Instead, they offered to supply various public relations materials. The two leading smartphone makers—Apple and Samsung—also declined the paper’s requests.

When car manufacturers do speak on distracted driving, they often claim the solution is integrating more functionality in dashboard “infotainment” systems. While this mitigates the need to use handheld devices, however, it doesn’t eliminate cognitive distractions. In fact, it only enhances them.

So, what can be done to combat distracted driving? Safety advocates want to see policy changes, including a total ban on using mobile devices while driving, widespread awareness campaigns, and a commitment from motorists to pay better attention behind the wheel. They also believe manufacturers should incorporate “distraction-free” modes and more rigorous monitoring features into infotainment systems.

Call (562) 206-1939 to Discuss Your Case with a Long Beach Car Accident Attorney

Your Injuries Are Personal to Me

If you or someone you love was struck by a distracted driver, your family deserves justice. For help holding the liable party accountable, turn to the Law Office of Michael D. Waks.

Attorney Waks is a tenacious professional who has secured numerous six- and seven-figure payouts on behalf of his clients. To schedule your free initial consultation with this Long Beach car accident lawyer, call (562) 206-1939or submit our Online Contact Form.

Download Our Car Accident Emergency Response .PDF

Should you ever end up in another collision, recording the scene will make it easier to build a case against the at-fault party. To ensure you always have a comprehensive checklist on hand, keep a copy of our Car Accident Emergency Response .pdf in your glove box. Download it HERE for free.

Author
Recent Posts

Michael Waks

Michael Waks is an aggressive advocate for people who have suffered because of someone else’s actions. Michael decided to become a personal injury lawyer when, while clerking at a legal defense firm during law school, he witnessed and was infuriated by asbestos manufacturers spending millions to avoid taking responsibility for the egregious injuries they caused. Immediately after passing the bar, Michael opened his own firm in Long Beach, CA to help the victims of personal injury accidents get every benefit owed them under the law.