The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released new guidelines aimed at preventing driver distraction from cell phones and other devices in vehicles.

The new guidelines encourage device manufacturers to design products that help reduce the potential for distracted driving. This can include newer technology such as pairing, where portable devices can be linked to infotainment systems, or Driver Mode with simplified user options so drivers can keep their eyes on the road.

The NHTSA regularly encourages drivers to put down their cellphones while behind the wheel.

Distracted driving has contributed to a rise in deadly auto accidents with 424,000 people injured in 2013 and 18 percent, or one in five collisions, attributed to distracted driving. If you’re the victim of a car crash due to a distracted driver, reach out to our auto accident attorneys in Tulsa.

According to the NHTSA, distracted driving places motorists at risk by causing people to:

  • Remove either one or both hands from the steering wheel
  • Divert their attention away from operating the vehicle
  • Focus on objects other than the road

The NHTSA is also asking drivers to take preventative steps to ensure safer travels, such as entering their destination into a navigation system before driving, wearing a seatbelt and refraining from using a cellphone.

Distracted driving is a dangerous trend that can have fatal consequences. If you have lost a loved one due to another person’s negligence or suffered injuries from a car accident with a careless driver, contact The Edwards Law Firm.

Our experienced auto accident attorneys in Tulsa will review your case in a free, no obligation consultation to determine if you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost income, and pain and suffering. We provide our services for no charge unless you receive a fair outcome. Schedule a consultation with our team of personal injury lawyers at The Edwards Law Firm today.