Using hands-free devices is not risk-free

A new study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety suggests that even hands-free devices can be dangerously distracting to drivers. Researchers report that in-vehicle technology will likely increase by five-fold by 2018. Although hands-free technology can make drivers feel like they are being safer and more responsible, it may contribute to an increase in distracted driving accidents.

Dr. David Strayer and his team at the University of Utah conducted the research by measuring brainwaves, eye movement and other metrics as drivers performed common tasks, such as talking on the phone and answering voice activated emails. The team discovered that as cognitive distractions increased, reaction time decreased. Drivers did not scan the roadway sufficiently and missed visual cues of potential hazards.

Applied to the real world, this means that drivers engaged with their hands-free devices may not register important objects like stop signs, red lights or even pedestrians in the road. An increase in the use of hands-free devices could mean an increase in auto accident injuries.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured by a distracted driver, please call 301-251-1286 today or contact the Law Offices of Stuart L. Plotnick, LLC for your consultation with an experienced Maryland auto accident attorney. We represent clients in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC.