According to studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, driver distraction is estimated to be the cause of approximately 25-30% of all vehicle accidents in the United States each year. One cause of driver distraction is GPS tracking devices, which are an indirect cause of automobile accidents but contribute to driver inattention in the following ways:
GPS voice command has been disabled
Disabling (turning off) the audio voice function of a GPS tracking device forces the driver to physically look at the device in order to determine its data output – this means that drivers must avert their eyes and divert their attention from the road.
Command input while driving
Attempting to input coordinates or commands into the GPS tracking device while the vehicle is moving is similar to talking or texting on a mobile phone while driving.
The statistical link between GPS tracking devices and automobile accidents is a clear indication that many drivers rely heavily on their GPS unit to locate their destination. Sometimes this reliance can lead to a more confused driver because the unit’s maps may be out-dated or may not accurately reflect new road construction. Additionally, communication errors are common and may be caused by the satellite signal being blocked. When a driver is concentrating on a GPS or relying heavily on it when driving in an unfamiliar area, the driver can experience confusion and anxiety that increases the risk of a Mississippi distracted driving accident.
GPS devices are commonly used throughout the United States in privately owned vehicles as well as commercial vehicles. When GPS devices are used correctly and safely, they can greatly benefit drivers by saving both time and money. Additionally, the installation of a GPS unit in commercial vehicles may contribute to a reduction in the company’s insurance premiums. The installation of a GPS unit in commercial trucks also allows the company to track their fleet traffic as well as assist in locating and tracking individual drivers.
All drivers, both private and commercial, should exercise the utmost caution when using a GPS device to ensure their own safety as well as the safety of others. Drivers should exercise common sense when using a GPS device – never taking their eyes from the road to read the output generated by a GPS device and always bringing the vehicle to a complete and safe stop prior to entering the coordinates of a location into the GPS unit.
The incorporation of GPS devices in many smart phones also has contributed to the ineffectiveness of many cell phone driving laws. Because using a GPS device while driving is not prohibited for non-commercial drivers anywhere in the U.S., it can be difficult for law enforcement to differentiate between prohibited uses of a cell phone and those like GPS functions that are permitted. Ironically, there has been a widespread movement to restrict or ban cell phone use while driving because of the widely recognized risk associated with texting or talking and driving. However, it is legitimate to wonder whether those who use a GPS device without exercising extreme caution are creating just as great a risk.
If you or a loved one has been injured or a loved one has died in an accident involving a driver distracted by a GPS device, our Mississippi distracted driving attorneys may be able to help. If you or a family member is injured in a Mississippi distracted driving accident, the experienced districted driving accident attorneys at Barrett Law may be able to represent you in seeking financial compensation for any injuries or the wrongful death of a loved one. At the Barrett Law Offices PLLC, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi. Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (662) 834-2376 to see how we can help.
