Are advanced touchscreens a danger on the road?

Car consumers looking for the ultimate driving experience may find cutting-edge infotainment systems a major selling point. However, these touchscreens could make driving on Kentucky roads more dangerous than usual. When operating a motor vehicle, drivers must pay attention to other cars and pedestrians. Touchscreens that distract from this fundamental safety goal could increase accidents and injuries.

Incredible touchscreens coming to the marketplace

Several top vehicle manufacturers intend to release impressive and innovative multimedia displays. Tesla wants to draw customers with a touchscreen that mimics the ever-popular iPad. Volvo, Mercedes, Ford, and others want to captivate customers with their new technology. Unfortunately, drivers who spend more time concerned with infotainment features may contribute to increased distracted driving incidents.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration would prefer manufacturers not to produce infotainment systems with “egregiously dangerous” designs. However, even a simplistic touchscreen may come with dangers.

Enamored with touchscreens

Manufacturers seem intent on producing bigger touchscreens and infotainment systems with complex features. Enamored consumers might choose a vehicle that provides these perks, but they may not think about the dangers associated with potential distractions.

The AAA Foundation reveals that changing destinations or playlists can lead to longer distractions than some drivers realize. Playing with a touchscreen may result in up to a 40-second distraction, which is a dangerous amount of time.

Changing addresses on a GPS or drifting in thought to a favorite playlist could cause a crash. As more vehicles come with compelling infotainment systems, the risks of car accidents may increase as well.

Accidents caused by distracted drivers could inflict permanent injuries and fatalities. Lawsuits may follow, and the litigation could lead drivers to regret their decision to worry about touchscreens instead of safety.

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