Cell phones have become part of our daily lives. Two decades ago, these devices were only used by a few people. Today, an estimated 5 billion people use cell phones around the world. As integrated parts of our daily lives, smartphones consume a significant amount of our time. Many drivers know that using a phone while driving is dangerous. So, they opt for hands-free devices with the desire to make their phone use safe. However, is it safe to use hands-free devices while driving?
Hands-Free Devices & Distracted Driving
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, hands-free cell phone use while driving is dangerous despite having a reputation for being a safer alternative. The organization analyzed six common driver tasks, including hands-free phone use, to determine how distracted drivers become during various tasks.
This study used several measures to determine distracted driving, including the following:
- Brake reaction time
- Subjective workload surveys
- Reaction time & accuracy to peripheral light detection tests
- Brainwave activity
- Eye and head movement
Of the six tasks, the AAA Foundation determined that hands-free cell phone use was the third most distracting task for drivers. It was only behind speech-to-text use and hand-held cell phone use. In other words, despite having a reputation for being a safer alternative, hands-free cell phone use is still a safety risk.
Louisiana Laws Regarding Phone Use While Driving
Currently, Louisiana state law only bans texting while driving. However, drivers are not banned from handheld cell use unless they are in a school zone. Legislators have been working on a law to ban all handheld cell phone use while driving. However, the dangerous practice is still technically legal. While some drivers might take the personal responsibility to drive safer by using a hands-free device, it’s important that they know that they’re still driving while distracted.
What to Do After an Accident Caused by a Hands-Free Device User
While Louisiana laws might not have fines and punishments in place for drivers using cell phones, they are still accountable for harming others because of their behavior. All drivers on the road have a responsibility to protect the safety of others near them. If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, help is available from Clayton, Frugé & Ward. Our firm has spent decades advocating for those who are suffering because of another’s irresponsible behavior. Over the years, we've obtained justice for clients suffering because of the negligence of others. After being in an accident caused by a distracted hands-free device user, don’t face an insurance company that doesn’t have your best interests in mind alone. We can fight for the justice you deserve and will fight to hold the right parties accountable for your suffering.
For a free consultation, call Clayton, Frugé & Ward now at (225) 209-9943. We only collect a fee if we win your case.