Modern technology has helped even the most mundane parts of modern life become more interesting than before. This includes when you’re behind the wheel of the car, which can, sadly, have deadly consequences. NHTSA statistics estimate that over 3,000 Americans die every year on the road due to distracted driving, and that this figure is rising. Despite this, it’s likely that the amount of potential distractions will only increase as smart tech becomes more integrated with the drive. The ability to figure out how your driving will be impacted and what you should or shouldn’t be doing on the road will be crucial to staying safe.
Understanding the law
As with all law, the amount of control over distracted drivers varies massively from state to state. Increasingly, states are taking on hands-free laws, with Massachusetts the latest territory to regulate the use of devices in the car. How far the hands-free rule will extend is different dependent on where you live, however; some won’t even allow the use of a cigarette or vape while behind the wheel. There’s a lot you can do to appraise yourself of the rules, both as a driver and as a potential victim of a road traffic accident, such as liaising with a personal injury attorney to look at what distractions are permissible under local state law, and also to fully assess the situation on the ground.
Reminding yourself
As both a driver and a distracted pedestrian, it’s powerful to remind yourself that you don’t need to use your phone at all times. Most things can wait, and when there’s an emergency, take time to either park up or to move to a safe space where you won’t be at risk of rushing traffic. Paying attention to every single notification that your phone’s push service moves to you is an indication of addiction to smartphones, according to Muse, and a habit that should be addressed in kind. Simply put the phone away and come back when you’re not in a potentially dangerous position.
Make use of the technology
Increasing numbers of manufacturers are releasing vehicles with ultra-developed onboard tech. Many tech firms are similarly developing integrated assistants for the vehicle. With these technological changes, hands-free tech will become far less clunky and more intuitive. Make use of this to help you become a better driver, and to help people in the street feel safe. If your car and IoT gadgets have the capability to automate your life and keep your attention firmly on the road while still maintaining the business of your day-to-day life, do it. You’ll save yourself all the trouble associated with poor driving habits while enhancing your own day.
Distracted driving has, perhaps predictably given the rise of smart tech, become the primary road safety hazard in the USA. Addressing it is a wide range of state-based laws aimed at making drivers more mindful. While these develop, takes steps to make yourself more mindful on the roads too. Everyone will benefit.
