There is no denying that cellphone use while operating a vehicle contributes to
distracted driving accidents. However, many drivers believe that the source of distraction is the act
of typing a number and then holding the cellphone while driving with only
one hand on the wheel, rather than the phone conversation itself.
That is why it is popular belief that a hands-free cellphone can reduce
such issues, allowing drivers to make calls without taking their hands
off the steering while and their eyes off the road. Unfortunately, according
to several studies, hands-free cellphone use while driving is not considered
risk-free driving.
The Dangers of Hands-Free Cellphone Use
According to the National Safety Council, using a hands-free device while
driving is no safer than a hand-held phone because both are a distraction.
In simulation studies conducted at the University of Utah, talking on
a hands-free cellphone has a similar level of distraction as talking on
a hand-held device.
The main problem with hands-free cellphones is that they fail to address
the true issue regarding cellphone use while driving: an inability to
keep the mind focused on the primary task of driving. While the brain
can quickly toggle between tasks, it cannot do two things at the same
time. While you drive, the activity in the area of the brain that processes
moving images decreases by up to one-third when listening to talking on a phone.
Research shows that it does not matter whether the cellphone is in the
driver’s hand or attached to the dashboard, the act of speaking
on the phone itself divers the driver’s attention, making it extremely
difficult to be completely aware of his or her surroundings.
If you suffered an injury in a
car accident caused by a negligent driver,
contact a Fort Worth car accident attorney at the
Law Office of James M. Stanley today.