New York drivers understand the need to stay focused on the road. After all, distracted driving makes up an enormous share of driving-related crashes and fatalities. But sometimes, there are situations in which a driver must use a handheld device. Rideshare and delivery workers are among these people.
Hands-free technology exists as an attempt to address the dangers of using a handheld device while driving. It has some successful points, but unfortunately, there is still a long way to go.
Hands-free tech addresses visual and physical distractions
The National Safety Council says hands-free technology cannot offer a driver full protection. The biggest flaw exists at a fundamental level as well, making it difficult to address and fix.
This flaw involves the three categories that most distracted behaviors can fit into. They include cognitive, visual and physical distractions. For example, driving by another car wreck can serve as a visual distraction. Dropping something on the floor of your car and reaching down to pick it up is a physical one. Cognitive distractions involve anything that takes your mind off the task at hand: in this case, driving.
Cognitive distractions continue to be an issue
Hands-free devices allow you to use your phone with voice commands and dictation. Since you do not have to look at the screen, it cuts down on visual distractions, too. Unfortunately, they enable the use of handheld devices, which are a cognitive distraction at their base.
Until hands-free devices find a way to address this issue, they cannot guarantee driver safety. If you got injured by a distracted driver, you can take a look at our page on handling the aftermath of a car crash. Getting back on your feet after a wreck is often a time-consuming and expensive process. It helps to have experts on your side.