Federal Guidelines Attempt to Fight Driver Distraction

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued new guidelines aimed at reducing driver distraction caused by cellphones and in-vehicle electronic devices. This is the second phase of voluntary guidelines released by the NHTSA addressing driver distraction across the country.

If you were hit by a distracted driver using a cellphone, you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries you sustained. The New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lynch Law Firm, PC will fight for maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and the pain and suffering that may be associated with your personal injury.

The recently issued guidelines are targeted at developers of mobile and aftermarket electronic devices. Because drivers have a hard time putting their devices down while behind the wheel, these guidelines encourage device manufacturers to include features that allow drivers to safely use the devices while driving. Such features include:

• Pairing systems, which link a driver’s mobile device to the automobile’s built-in infotainment system.
• Driver Mode, which displays a simplified interface when driving.

The NHTSA believes such features would limit the potential for distraction by reducing the amount of time a driver would take his or her eyes off the road to use a device. These features would preserve original device functionality at all other times.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least eight people are killed in distracted driving accidents every day in the United States. Another 1,161 are injured each day.

In addition to guidelines for device manufacturers, the NHTSA encourages drivers to take the following precautions when behind the wheel to minimize distractions:

• Drivers should not use their cellphones when driving.
• Drivers should program GPS destinations prior to starting their trip.
• Passengers can also help reduce driver distraction by offering to make calls and send texts for the driver.
• Everyone in a vehicle should wear seat belts at all times to protect themselves against other distracted drivers on the roads.

Call (800) 518-0508  today.