Can Apps Help Battle Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of dangerous—and sometimes fatal—accidents on the road, both in Louisiana and nationwide. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in 2016, distracted drivers caused close to 3,500 traffic fatalities.

To help reduce the number of distracted drivers on the roads in Louisiana, the Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles has enacted several regulations. For example, drivers with a learner’s permit (not a full driver’s license) may not use a hand-held cell phone while driving. Perhaps the most stringent law is the text message ban for all drivers. Drivers who are found guilty of sending a text message while driving face a stiff fine. However, despite these laws and continuing education, distracted driving accidents continue to increase.

Apps Designed to Help Prevent Distracted Driving

Some smartphone applications (apps) only add to the problem of distracted driving. Indeed, some apps, such as mapping software and gas price trackers, are designed to be used while driving. However, some developers have created apps designed to reduce the temptation of checking your phone on the road. Some of these apps include:

• AT&T Drive Mode App – Silences any incoming text messages and sends an automatic response that the cell phone owner is currently driving and unavailable.
• Android Message Loud App – This is an option designed for those who still need to stay connected while driving. Incoming texts and emails will be read out loud upon receipt.
• Apple’s Focus App – This is a humorous option to prevent distracted driving. The app will “yell” at you whenever you touch your phone. You can also sign up to receive distraction reports that indicate how often you touched the phone’s screen while driving.

Regardless of how diligent you are about avoiding distractions while driving, other drivers might not be using the same safe-driving apps. Do your best to avoid contributing to the problem, but always assume that other drivers may not be paying attention. Watch out for anyone driving erratically or who is obviously texting or otherwise using their smartphone—stay clear and preferably behind that driver, where you can avoid an accident.

Contact a New Orleans, LA Distracted Driving Lawyer to Discuss your Case

Driving while distracted is a serious hazard and a national issue. If you have been injured by a distracted driver, you have important legal rights. The attorneys at Egenberg, APLC understand how devastating this type of accident can be and we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options and how we can fight for fair compensation for your current and potential future damages. Don’t let the insurance companies offer you a low settlement that doesn’t even cover your medical bills. Call us at 504-229-5700 or contact us online to set up a free initial consultation to discuss your rights and legal options.