You, like most other Louisiana drivers, likely know that distracted driving can pose a serious risk to you and others on the roadways. You may remain vigilant about ensuring that you do not pick up your cellphone while behind the wheel and do your best to remain focused on the task of driving. Of course, small distractions affect everyone, and you may have to pull yourself back from time to time due to letting your thoughts wander.
Some people may believe that motor vehicle manufacturers are working to make cellphone use and distracted driving less of an issue by including certain technology in their vehicles. However, these infotainment systems can come with numerous distractions of their own, and simple tasks, such as turning up the radio, may become more complicated.
Infotainment system features
Because the high-tech touchscreens and other equipment that many new vehicles boast can allow drivers to access information, play music, use GPS, make phone calls and carry out other tasks, they are known as “infotainment systems.” Though it may seem convenient to have the ability to access these features from a dashboard screen, it can still prove immensely distracting.
Where a driver may have once been able to reach for a volume knob to adjust the radio — a manual distraction in itself — he or she may now need to touch a screen multiple times in order to find the right options for the radio. The driver may also need to go back and forth on the screen multiple times due to accessing the wrong features. As a result, that driver’s mind remains off the task of driving longer, and his or her hand also remains off the wheel.
Distracting vehicles
Reports indicate that some of these systems can prove more distracting than others. Some of the vehicle brands with the most distracting systems include:
- Tesla
- Volvo
- Acura
- Mercedes-Benz
- Cadillac
- Lexus
It was also noted that Fiat-Chrysler, Ford and GM had vehicles with the least distracting infotainment systems. It was unclear what features may have made the systems more or less distracting.
Distracted driving accidents
Unfortunately, distracted driving makes up for a considerable number of car accidents, and you may have been the victim of such an event. If a driver distracted by a cellphone, infotainment system or other distraction caused an accident that led to your serious injuries, you may wish to consider seeking compensation for damages allowable under state law.
