Without question, most pedestrian accidents could be avoided if drivers simply took extra precautions. And drivers often allow themselves to be distracted generally in areas where the most pedestrians are situated.
Though there are many suggested methods that supposedly would allow drivers to avoid distractions, sometimes the alleged remedy creates rather than subtracts from the danger. For example, there are now many devices available that would allow for text messages to be sent while using voice commands. Though such an approach would seem to be an improvement over the way many drivers currently use their cellphones, a new study conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA) suggests that there are a number of hidden dangers that accompany the use of such devices.
The study suggests that talking on a hands-free cellphone is not much safer than using a hand-held phone. However, using a hands-free device that is used to transcribe speech into a text message requires greater concentration than simply speaking to another individual on the phone. Drivers tended to develop tunnel-vision while performing this sort of task, and the driver would often be even more focused in on the messages being sent or the ones that he or she are about to deliver. For whatever reason, when drivers are conducting these sorts of tasks they also seem to be poised at looking straight ahead rather than checking the mirrors or paying attention to possible blind spots.
It makes little difference to an injured party that the driver was only momentarily distracted before a pedestrian accident occurred. Any pedestrian struck by an automobile is going to be seriously hurt.
If you are the family member of a pedestrian that has been injured or killed due to a car accident, you may find it helpful to consult with an attorney that represents clients injured in motor vehicle crashes. These attorneys can speak with witnesses, reconstruct how an accident occurred, and can also make certain that injured parties receive the compensation they deserve either through settlement or in court.
Source: AZFamily.com, “Hands-free texting still distracting for drivers,” by Joan Lowy, June 12, 2013