Many Illinois drivers have stories of close calls as a distracted driver has made a last-minute correction. Others have unfortunate stories of injuries or even the loss of a family member because of an individual’s use of a smartphone while driving. Efforts have spanned the nation as states and employers have attempted to reduce this serious wave of deadly accidents related to drivers’ attention to electronic devices. Although hands-free solutions such as Bluetooth headsets have helped in facilitating communication needs while keeping a driver’s eyes on the road, many motorists are unaware of the fact that their brains continue to be distracted regardless.

Vehicle manufacturers appear to be contributing to safer driving by including hands-free systems such as infotainment dashboards and voice-activated phone calling into their models. However, the presence of such systems does not necessarily mean that they are completely safe. Brain engagement during multi-tasking activity can interfere with a driver’s concentration. While many such systems can enhance safety in some respects, they do not eliminate all dangers of distractions while driving.

A complete ban on phone contact while driving may not be practical, but there are companies who have decided to initiate such bans when their employees are driving while on the clock. This may limit the risk of company liability and other legal responsibilities by reducing potential distractions during work hours. Similarly, drivers could consider improving their own safety by limiting their use of any communications devices while on the road.

A distracted driver does not need to use technology to be dangerous on the road. Distraction scenarios can be as varied as a parent trying to quiet a screaming toddler or an individual trying to apply makeup on the way to work. Serious injuries can occur in any distracted driving accident, which could result in a civil lawsuit being filed against the negligent motorist by an attorney who is seeking compensation for a client who has been harmed in such manner.