Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
These days, it seems many people practically live out of their vehicles, which is likely why so many cars and trucks are equipped with so many features. Many new-model cars have built-in phones, text messaging devices, access to the internet and high-tech GPS devices.
While drivers may be pleased with the convenience of newer cars, government officials are growing ever more concerned. Recently the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) made a recommendation of new guidelines for car manufacturers to follow when it comes to in-car distractions. Officials want these devices to shut off when the car is moving to help reduce the risks of car accidents in Bonita Springs and elsewhere, according to The News-Press.
Newer cars allow many conveniences – everything from seat temperature adjustment to assistance with directions. All these conveniences come at a price – an increased risk of car accidents. Our Bonita Springs car accidents attorneys know that these devices, designed to make each ride easier, are a partial contributor to why car accidents are the top killer for Americans. While offering convenience, in-car technology can also be quite distracting. Keep your priorities straight at the wheel and keep your eyes on the road.
Since 2002, automakers have been operating under their own safety regulations regarding in-car technologies. Some safe driving advocates would argue that roadway safety and driver distractions aren’t on their current list of priorities.
That’s why the NHTSA is stepping in and suggesting new regulations.
“We recognize that vehicle manufacturers want to build vehicles that include the tools and conveniences expected by today’s American drivers,” said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland.
One of the problems expected to arise from this new recommendation is the passenger’s involvement with these devices. Some would argue that passengers can safely operate GPS devices while a driver is driving. Even if there’s no passenger, some think that drivers will just bring along their own portable GPS device to override the one that’s been shut off by the car. It’s a tricky situation and it’s tough to get around.
The new guidelines from the NHTSA are geared toward SUVs and passenger cars. They would exclude in-car safety electronics like lane change warning systems, collision warning systems and GPS devices as long as they’re not being altered while the car is in motion.
Strickland says that if GPS devices are taken out of cars and there are more crackdowns on these devices, then drivers will be forced to resort back to paper maps, which we all know isn’t really safe at all.
Regardless of what technologies may or may not be available in our vehicles, it’s still of utmost importance that drivers stay focused on the task at hand — driving. Driver awareness and caution is still our number one defense against accidents in South Florida.
If you or someone who is close to you has been injured in a car accident in Bonita Springs, Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral or in Sebring, contact Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured, for a knowledgeable explanation regarding your rights. Experienced injury attorneys are available for a free appointment to discuss your case in detail. Call 1-800-283-2900.
More Blog Entries:
Passengers Increasing Risks for Teen Car Accidents in Naples, Nation, Florida Injury Lawyer Blog February 8, 2012
Fatal Car Accidents in Fort Myers and Elsewhere Drop in 2011 Preliminary Estimates, Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, January 3, 2012
