We all know that distracted driving can be fatal. Whether it’s eating, shaving, putting on make-up or answering the phone, taking our eyes, hands and attention off of driving for a fraction of a second can result in personal injuries and fatalities.
Truck accidents, often involving large vehicles with considerable momentum and size, amplify these dangers. The consequences of distracted driving are particularly severe when it involves trucks, due to their increased stopping distances and potential for causing devastating damage. Cherry Hill 18-wheeler accident attorneys can help recover compensation, while dealing with the complications of a trucking-related accident. Is having a hands-free cell phone much safer? Not really. The facts are clear, even hands-free devices result in decreased performance of reaction time, danger detection and collision avoidance.
Hands-free phones are convenient but dangerously deceptive
In 2019, 1,001 motor vehicle accidents resulted from handheld cell phones, while 390 were caused by hands-free devices. Let’s take a closer look at the distinct challenges that both types of communication devices pose to New Jersey drivers:
- Handheld cell phones: According to the New Jersey Statutes Title 39. Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulation 39 § 4-97.3, it is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving. This includes talking, listening, texting, emailing or using social media. Using a handheld cell phone is only allowed while driving if the driver is reporting a crime or other serious medical or road conditions such as an accident or fire.
- Hands-free cell phones: The same New Jersey law allows for hands-free devices. Although allowed, hands-free cellphones cause “a distracted brain.” Furthermore, hands-free phones can give driver’s a false sense of security. When talking on a handheld device, one is more aware that they are taking a risk.
The data demonstrates that a hand’s free cellular device is much safer than a handheld phone. However, that is not to say that hand’s free cellphones are not dangerous, they are just less dangerous.
You’re a safe, responsible driver. You know how dangerous distracted driving can be. Unfortunately, not all drivers are the same. If you’re involved in a wreck with a distracted driver, find out more about your legal rights to compensation for your losses.