Latest NHTSA Guidelines May Backfire on Preventing Distracted Driving
Earlier this year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) proposed a new set of rules that would limit in-vehicle “infotainment” systems in the hopes of reducing the risk of distracted driving accidents. The guidelines were announced in response to the growing trend among automakers of installing dashboard technology that allows drivers to access music, driving directions, weather reports, and more via touch screen or voice command.
The NHTSA argues that whether or not in-vehicle technology is voice commanded, it should be restricted to only a few functions unless the vehicle is parked.
In the past month, those in the auto industry claim that the guidelines will only backfire and drivers will once again turn to their cell phones when dashboard technology does not provide the distractions they want while on the road. To compromise, some auto manufacturers suggest that the systems should only be accessible when the car is not moving, such as when stopped at a red light.
Distracted driving is an ever-growing problem in the United States with more and more studies linking cell phone use with vehicle accidents. If you have been injured or lost a loved one due to the reckless actions of a distracted driver, please contact the Long Beach car accident attorney Joseph H. Low IV at (888) 454-5569 for a free consultation about your legal options. You have the right to seek compensation for your losses.