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Voice Activated Car Systems are Distracting Drivers

voice-activatedThe latest research on voice activated cars reveals hidden dangers inherent within these systems. While some technology corporations and car makers may tout the multitasking systems as safe, science indicates otherwise.

Research Results

Many people today believe texting and driving is a dangerous activity. However, voice activated systems also contribute to driver distraction and using such systems is the mental equivalent of balancing your checkbook while driving.

Various voice activated systems were analyzed, and even less complex systems disturb drivers attention away from the highway for 15 seconds when drivers stop engaging with the system. For complicated systems, drivers are distracted for up to 27 seconds when stopping the system. These seconds reflect the time necessary for drivers redirection back to driving and determine how quickly they are going, where they are and where other cars are.

Conducted by a neuroscientist at the University of Utah, David Strayers research was financed by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The chief executive of this nonprofit, Peter Kissinger, believes that mental distractions enduring effects can be dangerous for drivers.

Safety advocates heralded their concerns regarding voice activated systems and drivers. Since these systems might be thought profitable because they are sold as add-ons by car manufacturers, safety advocates argue that certain technology corporations and car makers are sending the wrong signal to drivers that this technology is safe.

Which Systems Could Affect Consumers the Most?

Voice activated systems may be distracting regardless of type. However, certain systems were discovered by Strayer to be more complex. The Mazda 6 is the most complicated with Microsofts Cortana system coming in at second. Volkswagen, Hyundai, Nissan, Chrysler and are highly distracting and Siri is implicated as well. The Buick LaCrosse and the Chevrolet Equinox have systems with moderate distractions.

If you need a personal injury attorney because you were in a car accident with someone who was distracted by a voice activated system, contact the law firm of GWC Injury Lawyers immediately.

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