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The National Safety Council (NSC) is currently publicizing their anti-distracted driving public safety campaign. They’re reminding motorists that Ending Distracted Driving is Everybody’s Responsibility. First and foremost, they’re continuing to get the word out about the dangers of cell phone use behind the wheel. In addition, they’re also educating the public about all of the different types of distractions facing drivers in the U.S. Any task that takes the driver’s eyes, mind or hands off the road is considered a distraction, so a lot of behaviors can fall into this category. From eating food and using the radio to talking on the phone or texting, distracted driving puts lives at risk.  

In-Vehicle Technology is Still Distracting  

According to the NSC, 53 percent of drivers believe that if manufacturers put “infotainment” dashboards and hands-free technologies in their vehicles, they must be safe. If your vehicle has a screen in it, that’s still a screen you shouldn’t be focusing on while you drive. Even adjusting the radio can be distracting. Just because it’s in your vehicle, that doesn’t mean it’s safe to use while driving.  

Hands-Free Devices Aren’t Always Safer  

With handheld bans in many places across the U.S., some drivers think that hands-free devices and technology are inherently safer. Unfortunately, data shows that hands-free devices aren’t substantially safer. They may even give the user a false sense of security. When it comes to talking on the phone, it turns out even just the cognitive portion of the task is too much for drivers to juggle behind the wheel.  

Making a Commitment to Distraction-Free Driving  

Making a commitment to distraction-free driving is a great step in improving your safety behind the wheel. Put your phone in the backseat. That call or text can wait. Also, remember that phones aren’t the only distractions behind the wheel. In-vehicle screens and infotainment systems can also be distracting. If it takes your mind, hands or eyes away from the task of driving, it’s a distraction. 

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a distracted driver in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.