Mar 9, 2020

On Behalf of Surdez & Perez P.C.

Residents in New York may have heard of hands-free technology. This technology promises to keep drivers safe when using phones or GPS navigation systems. While some swear by it, other studies show it is not as helpful as manufacturers want to make you think.

Hands-free technology may reduce some risk factors associated with distracted driving. Unfortunately, it cannot fix every risk factor. There are three components that make up safe driving. These are:

  • Having your mind on your driving
  • Keeping your eyes on the road
  • Keeping your hands on the wheel

If even one of these components is lacking, you cannot be a safe driver. Hands-free technology only addresses two of these aspects. With hands-free technology, you keep your hands on the wheel. Voice activated commands, bluetooth technology and speaker systems also help. They allow you to keep your eyes on the road, as your hands-free tech reads messages and directions to you.

But not even hands-free tech keeps your mind on the road. This is one of the biggest factors that impact potential crashes. Studies show that drivers become very distracted while holding conversations. This increased level of distraction lasts up to fifteen minutes after the conversation ends. Unfortunately, paying attention to hands-free tech opens you up to mental distraction.

If you wish to continue reading about crashes related to in-car technology, take a look at our linked web page. You can read more about common sources of car crashes. You can also read about how to use tactics on the road that improves your safety on a whole.